Andreas Buick: A Champion Against Hate Crimes in the Internet Age
Andreas Buick, Senior Public Prosecutor in Göttingen, Germany, heads the Central Office for Combating Hate Crimes on the Internet. Following the airing of a documentary by American TV network CBS highlighting the work of his office, the MAGA movement has ignited a debate about freedom of speech in Germany, with Vice President J.D. Vance himself weighing in.
In an interview with ZEIT ONLINE, Prosecutor Buick sheds light on the motivations and methods of his team, as well as the controversial responses their efforts have provoked.
ZEIT ONLINE: Mr. Buick, CBS recently aired a report that delved into the work of your office, showcasing specific cases where you prosecute the dissemination of hateful content online. The video has been shared widely, including by American Vice President J.D. Vance, who sees it as an unwarranted limitation on freedom of speech. How did it come to this?
Prosecutor Buick: The CBS documentary featured an interview with one of our prosecutors, who used an actual case to illustrate the criminal nature of hate speech on the internet. The MAGA movement then seized upon the video, framing it as an attack on freedom of expression in Germany. This has since sparked a widespread debate, with the video garnering millions of views.
ZEIT ONLINE: What is the legal basis for your office’s approach to hate crimes on the internet?
Prosecutor Buick: In Germany, the dissemination of hate speech, incitement to hatred, and defamation are criminal offenses. Our office specifically focuses on enforcing these laws in the digital realm. Hate speech has no place in our society, and we will continue to take action against those who engage in it online.
ZEIT ONLINE: Some argue that prosecuting hate speech online infringes upon freedom of speech. What is your response to this criticism?
Prosecutor Buick: Freedom of speech is a fundamental right, but it is not absolute. It does not protect speech that incites hatred or violence or that defames others. The law in Germany strikes a balance between protecting freedom of speech and preventing harm to individuals and society as a whole.
ZEIT ONLINE: How does your office identify and investigate cases of hate speech online?
Prosecutor Buick: We have a highly skilled team that monitors the internet for potential hate speech violations. Once we identify a case, we thoroughly investigate it, gathering evidence and working with other law enforcement agencies if necessary. In appropriate cases, we then bring charges against the individuals responsible.
ZEIT ONLINE: What penalties can individuals face for posting hate speech online?
Prosecutor Buick: The penalties for hate speech vary depending on the severity of the offense. In some cases, individuals may face fines, while in others they may be sentenced to imprisonment. Our goal is to hold those responsible for these crimes accountable and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
ZEIT ONLINE: How has your office’s work been received by the public?
Prosecutor Buick: Our efforts have been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised us for our commitment to combating hate speech, while others have criticized us for infringing on freedom of speech. However, we believe that our work is essential to protecting individuals and maintaining a civilized society where everyone feels safe and respected.
ZEIT ONLINE: What do you see as the future of the fight against hate speech in the digital age?
Prosecutor Buick: The internet has become a breeding ground for hate speech, and it is an ongoing challenge to address this problem. We must continue to work together, both nationally and internationally, to develop and implement effective strategies for combating hate speech online. This includes strengthening our laws, fostering collaboration among law enforcement agencies, and promoting education and awareness campaigns. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and respectful online environment for all.
