The German federal government has ruled out the possibility of a total ban on fireworks, opting instead to consider localized measures to address safety concerns raised after New Year’s celebrations.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser rejected calls for a nationwide prohibition following incidents involving pyrotechnics that resulted in five deaths and numerous injuries. The New Year’s Eve celebrations also saw hooligan use of fireworks, with attacks on law enforcement officers and firefighters in Berlin leading to hundreds of detentions.
“The right response is not a nationwide ban on fireworks but more targeted local measures. The goal should be to ensure the possibility of peaceful celebrations with fireworks while preventing dangerous excesses during New Year’s,” Faeser stated.
She emphasized that local authorities should have the power to identify high-risk areas and implement bans where necessary. “In terms of danger, there are significant differences between densely populated cities and rural areas, as well as between cities with specific ‘hotspots’ and regions where everyone celebrates peacefully,” Faeser added.
Chancellor Scholz echoed this sentiment, expressing support for stricter regulations on pyrotechnic production but opposing a blanket ban.
The debate emerged after widespread safety and public order issues during the New Year festivities. Despite some politicians and police union representatives advocating for a comprehensive ban, officials have pointed out the practical challenges of enforcement.
The Interior Ministry head in North Rhine-Westphalia highlighted that implementing such a ban would be “impossible” without deploying a police officer to every street corner.
Currently, German law permits the unrestricted use of fireworks only on December 31 and January 1. On other days, individuals require special authorization.
As discussions continue, the government aims to strike a balance between allowing traditional celebrations and addressing the safety risks associated with pyrotechnics.
