Germany Reports Rising Rate of Crimes Against Journalists

February 10, 2026 – Germany –

Germany has recorded a significant increase in crimes targeting journalists, according to official data and recent reporting by Deutsche Welle and other media outlets, raising concerns about the safety of media workers and broader threats to press freedom. The trend reflects growing hostility toward reporters across the country amid political polarization, social tensions, and heightened public scrutiny of the media.

Data released by Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) show that in the most recent reporting period, there was a notable uptick in incidents where journalists were subjected to physical assault, threats, and harassment compared with previous years. The figures include cases documented at demonstrations, online threats, and attacks during public events. According to authorities and press freedom groups, the rise in reported crimes against journalists underscores a deteriorating climate of safety for members of the press.

Journalists covered in the statistics work across print, broadcast, and digital media and were targeted while reporting on a variety of issues, including political protests, migration, economic policy, and public health. Some of the most frequent incidents occur at rallies where tensions run high and where participants have expressed hostile sentiments toward journalists they perceive as biased or adversarial. Law enforcement reports indicate that reporters and camera operators have been physically pushed, shouted at, and in some cases struck by objects while on assignment.

Press freedom advocates and journalist associations have strongly condemned the trend, warning that the increasing number of attacks undermines both individual safety and democratic norms. The German Federation of Journalists (DJV) and other professional bodies have called on authorities to ensure robust legal protections and effective policing at public events to safeguard media workers. They also stressed the importance of accountability and consistent prosecution of offenders to deter future attacks.

Online harassment and threats have also contributed to the elevated figures. Journalists reporting on contentious subjects such as migration policy and COVID-19 measures have been targeted with threatening messages and doxing, complicating their ability to work without fear of retaliation. Associations representing women journalists have flagged that online abuse often combines gender-based harassment with professional threats, heightening concerns about the digital safety environment.

German authorities have acknowledged the issue and said they are monitoring trends and coordinating with local police to protect public gatherings. Officials emphasised that crimes against journalists are criminal offences that will be investigated and prosecuted under existing laws. However, media organisations argue that greater emphasis on preventative measures, public awareness campaigns about press safety, and stronger condemnation from political leaders are also needed to address the root causes of hostility toward journalists.

The increase in attacks against journalists in Germany highlights challenges facing media professionals even within established democracies, where social divisions, misinformation, and polarised discourse contribute to environments in which journalists can become targets of intimidation and violence. Ensuring the safety of journalists remains a key issue for press freedom advocates and lawmakers alike.

Reference –

https://www.dw.com/en/germany-logs-rising-rate-of-crimes-against-journalists/a-75899832

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/germany-logs-rising-rate-crimes-163900972.html