Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), is undergoing a strategic realignment in response to escalating security challenges. According to BfV Vice President Sinan Selen, the agency’s role as a counterintelligence service is gaining prominence, mirroring a trend observed in other Western nations.
The BfV’s primary focus is now on defending against the actions of foreign powers, followed by counter-terrorism efforts and combating violent extremism. Russian activities currently constitute a significant area of concern for the agency. Selen indicated that Russia views Germany as a key target within Europe.
He detailed a broadening spectrum of Russian actions directed towards Germany, encompassing low-level intelligence operations, increased cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns and instances of tangible sabotage. These actions, he stated, aim to cultivate fear, uncertainty and doubt regarding Germany’s democratic institutions, portraying them as weak and decadent. Selen highlighted a perceived escalation in risk tolerance, suggesting a willingness to accept casualties or even fatalities as a consequence of these activities.
Following the onset of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, over 750 diplomats with alleged connections to Russian intelligence were expelled across Europe. Selen explained that Moscow has subsequently shifted its strategy, reducing overt espionage operations conducted from its embassies in favor of adapting its intelligence toolkit. This includes attempts to facilitate the migration of individuals into Germany and efforts to influence political decision-making.
To effectively address these evolving hybrid threats, the BfV has implemented an action plan focused on counter-espionage, signaling a strategic reprioritization of its core objectives.
