Amnesty International has condemned the German authorities for banning the use of Arabic at a pro-Palestine protest in Berlin, calling the move discriminatory and a violation of free speech. In a video statement, the rights group urged Germany to immediately lift the language restrictions and respect the right to peaceful assembly. The condemnation followed a demonstration near the city’s Wittenbergplatz underground station, which police forcibly shut down, arresting protesters for chanting, and and even for just speaking in Arabic on Saturday.
The protest, organised to demand an end to Israeli military operations in the West Bank and an embargo on arms sales to Israel, saw demonstrators carrying Palestinian flags and holding placards reading “Stop the aggression in the West Bank” and “Freedom for Palestine”. Despite being peaceful, the rally faced heavy police intervention when Arabic music and slogans were played. Officers insisted that only German and English were permitted for signs and chants, leading to a tense standoff. Over 50 demonstrators staged a sit-in, refusing to leave until several were detained.
“These language restrictions must stop,” Amnesty said in its statement, criticising German authorities for infringing on fundamental freedoms. The rights group, along with other human rights organisations, has repeatedly accused Germany of suppressing pro-Palestine voices through bans, police crackdowns and protest restrictions, particularly since the escalation of violence in Gaza in October 2023.
German authorities have increasingly restricted pro-Palestine demonstrations over the past year, justifying their actions by citing public order concerns. However, critics argue that the bans disproportionately target Arabic speakers and activists critical of Israel’s actions. Human rights advocates warn that Germany’s stance sets a dangerous precedent for civil liberties and the freedom of speech.
The protest took place as tensions in Palestine remain high. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes and military operations since October 2023 has exceeded 48,000. The demonstration’s organisers denounced Israel’s ongoing attacks and arms shipments, calling for international intervention.
Amnesty International’s condemnation of the Berlin crackdown has sparked widespread criticism of Germany’s policies. Rights groups and activists argue that the increasing constraints on the right to protest reflect a broader pattern of eroding democratic freedoms in the country. The international community continues to monitor Germany’s approach, as concerns mount over the shrinking space for political expression and dissent.
