Federal Administrative Court to rule on Bavarian cruise decree next week
Since the new regulations were introduced, the rules of procedure for the Bavarian authorities have stipulated that a cross must be clearly visible at the entrance to every office building as an "expression of Bavaria's historical and cultural character". This was controversial from the outset, with even Munich Cardinal Reinhard Marx criticizing the state government's approach at the time.
One of the harshest critics was the BFG in Munich, which saw the mandatory crosses as a violation of the state's neutrality requirement. It also argued that the Christian religion was being favored over other world views. The BFG and 25 individuals appealed to the Bavarian Administrative Court. The court dismissed their complaints in June 2022.
The Administrative Court explained that the state's neutrality requirement was not being upheld, as the cross is a symbol of Christian faith and not just of Western culture, which is shaped by Christianity. However, it did not recognize a violation of fundamental rights.
The cross was above all a passive symbol with no proselytizing or indoctrinating effect. In addition, the crucifixes were placed in the entrance area - a passageway where visitors only stayed for a short time.
The BFG appealed against the ruling from Munich to the Federal Administrative Court, which is now reviewing it. Its decision is due to be announced on Tuesday.
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Source: www.stern.de
