Show meetings / demonstrations

Freedom of Assembly

From article 8 paragraph 1 GG it is evident that it is a civil right:

1. All Germans have the right to assemble peacefully and without weapons without registration or permission.
2. For assemblies in the open air, this right can be restricted by law or on the basis of a law.

Consequently, only German citizens may invoke Article 8(1) of the Basic Law. Foreigners may assemble on the basis of the general freedom of action (derived from art. 2 GG + art. 11 EMRK).

Obligation to register for assemblies / rallies in the open air

Restrictions on the fundamental freedom of assembly result primarily from the Assembly Act. The law on assemblies regularly provides for an obligation to register for assemblies / rallies in the open air.

Demonstration (procession)

Anyone who intends to hold a demonstration (procession) in the open air must notify the assembly authorities (Municipal Security Team) at least 48 hours before the announcement (§ 14 para. 1 VersG). There is therefore a duty to register.

• Assembly Act - § 15