No special register for trans people: data protection debate in Herford!
On November 7th, 2025, SPD MP Stefan Schwartze criticized the lack of majority for a special register for trans people in Herford.

No special register for trans people: data protection debate in Herford!
The discussion about the special register for trans people in Germany continues to cause excitement. For a year now, queer people in Germany have had the opportunity to change their gender and first names more easily. But the planned special register, which was supposed to be launched by the Federal Ministry of the Interior, has not received the approval that would be necessary to implement the idea.
A recent vote in the Federal Council did not produce a clear result, and the project is therefore stalled for the time being. The SPD member of the Bundestag Stefan Schwartze, who represents the interests of the Herford and Bad Oeynhausen districts, was clearly critical of the project. He described the register as a “serious interference with data protection” and warned of the consequences that could arise for those affected. Schwartze worries that old data could lead to people having to come out again, which would be extremely stressful for many. These concerns underscore the importance of treating sensitive data respectfully and securely, especially at a time when data protection is becoming a growing focus.
Criticism of the special register
The planned measures are of a not insignificant nature. A failed plan to introduce a special registry to store old names and gender entries is a reflection of efforts to protect data and privacy for people. This issue is particularly relevant because trans people often face discrimination and prejudice. The question of how society deals with the personal data of trans people concerns not only politicians, but also the general public.
In political discourse, it is crucial that the voices of those affected are heard. Transparent decision-making processes are essential in order not to undermine the trust of the community. Ultimately, this is about the individual right to self-determination and the freedom to live one's own identity without fear of stigmatization.
The debate about the special register shows how important it is to respond to people's needs and fears. Instead of forcing them into a system that can be potentially harmful, solutions should be found that respect the respect and rights of those affected. The latest developments make it clear that there is still a lot of room for improvement to ensure social acceptance and protection for all people.
It remains to be seen what the political landscape will be like in the near future and what solutions will be offered to address these challenges. The sensitive issues surrounding gender identity and data protection will certainly form a central element of future discussions.