Germany to Tighten Knife Control Laws

In response to a rise in stabbing incidents, Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser plans to tighten knife possession laws.

Faeser announced on Sunday that the new regulations would significantly restrict the use of knives in public spaces.

Under the proposed changes, the permissible blade length for knives carried in public will be reduced from 12 centimeters to 6 centimeters.

The new legislation also aims to impose a general ban on dangerous pocket knives. Faeser emphasized the need for local authorities to designate more areas where carrying weapons or knives is prohibited.

Recent police statistics reveal a concerning trend: last year, there were 8,951 reported cases of physical assault involving knives, either used to injure or threaten individuals, marking a 6.5% increase from 2022.

The Federal Police has reported a further rise in knife attacks during the first half of 2024, particularly in train stations.