Debate Over Firework Ban Continues: Berlin Aligns SPD States, Dobrindt Proposes Discussion

The recent conference of interior ministers from federal and state governments in Bremerhaven concluded without reaching a consensus on the proposed ban on private firework displays during New Year's celebrations. However, there were notable developments as the SPD-led states found common ground, primarily due to the influence of Berlin's Interior Senator, Iris Spranger.

During the discussions, a proposal was revisited that aims to introduce flexibility within federal explosives legislation, allowing states to implement their own regulations regarding firework usage. Following Spranger's advocacy, the SPD-led states, referred to as the 'A-states', managed to formulate a unified stance. In contrast, the 'B-states', governed by the opposition Union parties, did not align with this approach.

Ulrich Mäurer, the chairman of the interior ministers' conference and Bremen's interior senator, alongside Spranger, indicated that Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt would extend an invitation to the states for discussions concerning the proposed flexibility in the explosives law. Spranger emphasized the urgency of the matter, expressing concerns that the upcoming autumn conference in December would be too late for implementing any changes before the New Year's celebrations.

Spranger reiterated her call for designated zones where fireworks would be allowed, as well as a total ban on private firework displays. She noted that three years prior, her call for amendments to the explosives law received little support, but the situation has changed with the backing of the A-states.

In light of tragic incidents during the New Year's celebrations of 2024/2025, which resulted in five fatalities and numerous injuries, including that of a police officer and a seven-year-old child in Berlin, Spranger stressed the need for local governments to have the authority to regulate pyrotechnics during the holiday. She has consistently advocated for the establishment of zones where fireworks could be safely permitted.

In early 2023, the Berlin chapter of the Police Union initiated a petition advocating for a ban on fireworks, which has since garnered over two million signatures. A spokesperson for the union expressed disappointment with the lack of decisive action from the interior ministers, emphasizing that the safety of the public is increasingly at risk due to the escalating dangers associated with unregulated fireworks during New Year's.

The union pointed out that other countries have successfully maintained celebratory traditions through organized events that include fireworks, demonstrating that peaceful New Year's celebrations can occur without the hazards posed by personal firework usage.

Moreover, various organizations, including animal rights groups and environmental activists, are advocating for a ban on private firework sales and usage. The German Environmental Aid (DUH) has also launched a campaign aimed at altering the explosives regulation to permanently prohibit the private purchase and use of fireworks. Their representatives highlighted the severe air pollution caused by fireworks and called for immediate governmental action to ensure public safety.

As the New Year approaches, concerns about potential injuries and property damage continue to rise, with the police union warning that another year could pass without effective measures to mitigate the risks associated with fireworks.