Nancy Faeser Advocates Collaboration with Football Clubs Following Police Cost Ruling
In a recent development following a ruling by Germany's Federal Constitutional Court, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has called for a unified front between the government and football clubs to tackle violence associated with the sport. The court's decision upheld the legality of charging football clubs for police deployment during high-risk matches, a practice that has been in effect in Bremen for the last ten years.
Faeser emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating violence at football events, stating that it is crucial for clubs to engage in preventive measures. This includes implementing stadium bans for individuals involved in violent behavior, rigorous entrance checks, and a strict zero-tolerance policy against illegal use of pyrotechnics. Many clubs are reportedly already taking significant steps in these areas.
She highlighted the effectiveness of preventive strategies, asserting that they lead to a noticeable decrease in violence and related incidents. By fostering partnerships between clubs, fan representatives, and law enforcement, she believes that it is possible to create a safer environment for fans and reduce the number of injuries, police hours required, and criminal complaints.
Faeser acknowledged the substantial police presence at football matches, noting that around 2,000 officers from the Federal Police are deployed at each match to ensure safety. This significant effort reflects the government's commitment to protecting the majority of peaceful fans and maintaining the integrity of the sport. She firmly stated that allowing disruptive individuals to undermine football is unacceptable.
The responsibility for establishing regulations regarding police cost contributions now lies with individual states, following the court's ruling. This ruling could potentially lead to increased financial responsibilities for clubs hosting high-risk matches, as the need for police presence is deemed necessary for ensuring order and safety.
As discussions continue, both government officials and football clubs are urged to work together to enhance safety measures and ensure that the sport remains a positive experience for all involved.