The German Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt of the CSU party, has unveiled a sweeping security initiative framed as a response to escalating external threats, terrorism and organized crime. In an interview with “Handelsblatt”, Dobrindt declared 2026 will be defined by “security, stability and protection” emphasizing a commitment to ensuring citizens feel safe both in their daily lives and within their homes. He issued a stark warning: those who attack German democracy will encounter a resolute state.
The proposed initiative entails a significant expansion of powers for Germany’s security agencies, raising immediate concerns amongst civil liberties groups. Central to Dobrindt’s plan is the implementation of facial recognition technology utilizing artificial intelligence, specifically biometric internet matching of image data. This would allow authorities to compare faces detected in public spaces against existing databases. Furthermore, the government intends to legalize automated data analysis and the retention of IP addresses, a measure critics argue could lead to mass surveillance.
Changes are also planned to the legal framework governing the Federal Police, granting them greater authority, including the controversial “source telecommunications surveillance” (TKÜ). This power, enabling the interception of communications connected to information sources, has triggered fierce debate regarding privacy protections in the past. The government signals a particular focus on countering digitally influenced threats originating from Russia, including targeted disinformation campaigns and sabotage against critical infrastructure.
Addressing what Dobrindt described as “hybrid threats” the plan envisions the creation of a legal framework permitting retaliatory cyberattacks. Under the guise of preventative action within the scope of public safety, authorities would be empowered to disable the server infrastructure or digital systems of attackers, even located outside Germany’s borders. The imminent completion of the “Cyber-Dome” an automated network defense system, is also slated for next year. Notably, the design and implementation of this system will reportedly draw heavily on the expertise and experience of Israel, prompting questions about the potential for adopting surveillance models with limited public oversight.
While the government asserts these measures are crucial for national security, critics are raising serious questions about proportionality and the potential erosion of fundamental rights. The reliance on Israeli technology and the broad scope of the proposed powers, especially concerning predictive analytics and international cyber-offensives, are expected to be met with considerable parliamentary scrutiny and public debate.
