- Buschmann discourages the inclusion of "race" in firearm legislation.
Following the tragic incident in Solingen, the federal government will review the possibility of strengthening gun regulations and accelerating deportation processes. Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser (SPD) and Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann (FDP) articulated this during a visit to the Joint Terrorism Defense Center (GTAZ) in Berlin. Buschmann underscored that the emphasis now lies on meticulous examination of appropriate actions, not a "contest" to enhance gun laws.
Faeser stated in the aftermath of the presumed terrorist attack that had resulted in several fatalities on Friday, that the federal government will "assess the situation jointly." A man reportedly killed three individuals at a city festival in Solingen on Friday evening. Eight people were wounded, four severely. The suspected assailant is a 26-year-old Syrian. The Federal Prosecutor's Office is examining him for murder and suspected affiliation with the terrorist organization Islamic State (IS).
Buschmann clarified that the federal government would now concentrate on three key areas: combating violent extremism linked to Islam, stepping up deportation processes, particularly within the scope of the Dublin Agreement, and potential "meaningful adjustments" in gun legislation. On this last point, the minister clarified that the use of a knife by the suspect in Solingen was already illegal. Therefore, it is crucial to assess whether and to what extent further restriction would prove beneficial. Buschmann expressed his opposition to individual parties aiming to "outshine" each other in this regard.
Existing gun prohibitions
For "public entertainment, traditional festivals, sports events, trade fairs, exhibitions, markets, or similar public gatherings," as well as for "theater, cinema, and discotheque visits and dance events," a gun ban is already in effect, as per the Weapons Act. Exceptions can be made. Additionally, state governments have the authority to enforce gun bans in crime-ridden areas.
Previously, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) mentioned during a visit to Solingen his intention to fortify gun laws in Germany, specifically in relation to knife use. "This should and will happen promptly," Scholz stated.
Deportations include those to Syria and Afghanistan
Regarding deportations, Faeser reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to removals of potential offenders and criminals to Syria and Afghanistan. The government is actively working to facilitate this process. "The safety of Germany takes precedence," the minister emphasized. At the same time, she acknowledged that there are also "substantial challenges" in this regard. A deportation can only be undertaken if there is also a "predisposition" of the individual, such as through criminal offenses, Faeser mentioned.
Current Weapons Act on Prohibitions
The minister of justice, Marco Buschmann, highlighted the focus on accelerating deportation processes, particularly within the Dublin Agreement's framework, as one of the three key areas following the Solingen incident. Faeser, the minister of interior, reiterated the federal government's commitment to carrying out deportations, especially to Syria and Afghanistan, prioritizing the safety of Germany.
