Baden-Württemberg increases video surveillance: security or control?

Baden-Württemberg increases video surveillance: security or control?

In Baden-Württemberg, far-reaching changes are coming to video surveillance. The green-black state government wants to significantly tighten the regulations on surveillance in public spaces. This is shown by a current cabinet template that is available to the German Press Agency (dpa) and which will be discussed in the cabinet on Tuesday. The measures aim to make it easier to store and use video recordings and thus increase security in publicly accessible areas. Loud SWR There are also plans to double the storage periods for such recordings.

A key point of this reform is that constitutional protection officers should be given the opportunity to request video recordings from private video operators. This regulation will only apply to publicly accessible places, such as gas stations or underground car parks. Private videos, such as from cell phones, are not affected by this new regulation. The intention behind it is clear: the new powers are intended to better identify contact networks in the “Islamist spectrum”, such as the n-tv reported.

Proportionality and data protection

An important element of these changes is the planned adjustment of the state data protection law. The protection of life, health and freedom at protected objects is of particular importance, which is also emphasized in the new template. In order to maintain the balance between security and privacy, the so-called priority check should be made easier. This test weighs the invasion of privacy against the necessary security measures, which is the case with the GDPR is clearly regulated.

Planned video surveillance in public places is permitted if it serves to protect the public interest and the interests of the people concerned do not outweigh it. At large public events or in extensive facilities, such as shopping centers or sports facilities, the protection of people is considered particularly important. All of these measures make it clear that the state government has a clear focus on the safety of its citizens.

In summary, it can be said that the upcoming changes in video surveillance in Baden-Württemberg could have far-reaching consequences. While they represent a step towards greater security, the question arises as to how the balance between security and privacy can be effectively maintained. In the coming days it will be exciting to see how the debate surrounding these changes to the law develops.