Germany: Possible violations of the freedom of assembly in the context of the European Championships reported
Football by PxHere
Recent publications by Frag den Staat, the Arbeitskreis Kritischer Jurist*innen Freiburg and The New Arab reported on possible violations of the right to freedom of assembly in the context of the European Championships in Germany. Specifically, Frag den Staat and the Arbeitskreis Kritischer Jurist*innen Freiburg report that the host cities were required to give UEFA far-reaching guarantees, including on the implementation of “clean zones”, that are in violation of the German constitution. In these "clean zones" around the vicinity of tournament venues, UEFA has prohibited “political and/or religious demonstrations”. According to a Spiegel investigation, the Bundestag's Research Service also came to the conclusion that such a commitment is presumably unconstitutional due to the principle of legality of administrative action.
An analysis by The New Arab warned that vague UEFA guidelines and crackdown by police would meet those wishing to express solidarity with Palestine at Euro 2024.
“Both UEFA and the German authorities must strictly respect fans’ rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly within and around stadiums, including in relation to Palestine.”Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International Head of Labour Rights and Sport
The Business and Human Rights Resource invited UEFA to reply to the allegations. The full response can be found below.