Police in North Rhine-Westphalia can no longer publish photos of protests
The judge says it could discourage protesters from joining in and thus infringe on the fundamental right to assembly. The higher administrative court in Münster announced the decision on Tuesday.
Sharing photos of demonstrations on police media channels could infringe on the right of assembly guaranteed by German law, because it could affect protesters’ behavior and make them shy or scared to participate.
The ruling asked a federal court to review the decision, yet to be considered on a national level.
The ruling does not apply to photographs, audio, and video taken in cases of violence and for police records or investigations. The police can still use stock photos and text on their media channels.
