In a recent statement, United Nations experts expressed significant concerns regarding the German government's approach to managing pro-Palestine demonstrations, highlighting what they describe as a suppression of solidarity movements with Palestine. Since October 2023, the actions of German authorities have reportedly become increasingly stringent.

A group consisting of four Special Rapporteurs and two independent legal experts observed that the majority of pro-Palestine protests have been peaceful. However, they noted that Germany has been actively criminalizing and punishing those participating in these demonstrations. Protestors have been advocating for several critical issues, including the cessation of arms exports to Israel, the end of what they call genocide and illegal occupation by Israel, ensuring access to humanitarian aid in Gaza, recognition of the State of Palestine, and accountability for international crimes.

The experts criticized the broad justifications used by Germany to intervene in these protests, which include concerns over security, public safety, prevention of antisemitism, and the prohibition of support for terrorist organizations. They also pointed out instances of excessive police force, arbitrary detentions—including minors, and unjustified protest bans.

Specific incidents underscore the severity of these measures, including the deportation orders issued in April to two Irish citizens and the revocation of a US citizen's student visa, all due to their involvement in pro-Palestine activities. This, according to the UN experts, represents a worrying misuse of immigration laws.

Calling for Germany to respect international human rights standards, particularly the rights to peaceful assembly and association as protected under Article 12 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the UN experts emphasized the importance of supporting actions that aim to halt atrocity crimes and genocide. They stressed that no scenario justifies the use of unnecessary and excessive police force against individuals exercising their fundamental freedoms.

The issue of policing pro-Palestine protests is not unique to Germany, with similar aggressive measures reported in the UK and the US. The international community, including these UN experts, continues to watch closely, advocating for the adherence to human rights obligations by all nations involved.