Minister Wants to End Prison Sentences for Ticketless Travel
The German Justice Minister wants to change a law. People go to prison for not paying for public transport. Her partner in the government does not agree with this change.
Approximately 7,000 to 9,000 people are imprisoned annually in Germany for traveling without a ticket. This law began in 1935 during the Nazi era. Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig has criticized this policy. She believes it is expensive and unnecessary. The government partner is questioning her proposal to change the law.
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Highlights
Prison Sentences for Ticketless Travel
People are imprisoned each year for traveling without tickets in Germany.
High Number of Imprisonments
Between 7,000 and 9,000 people are imprisoned annually for this offense.
Origins of the Policy
The policy of imprisoning people for this started in 1935.
Justice Minister's Goal
The Justice Minister wants to reduce criminalization of this offense.
Government Opposition Exists
Her government partner is doubtful about changing the law.
Perspectives
- The German Justice Minister wants to change the law.
- People can be sent to prison for riding public transport without a ticket.
- Thousands of people are imprisoned each year for this reason.
- The Justice Minister criticizes the policy.
The Justice Minister believes it should be reduced.
DW Deutsch, RFI, Der Standard, New
The government partner is doubtful about the change.
DW Deutsch