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A recent study commissioned by the German government has revealed that approximately one-third of police officers observed racist remarks made by colleagues within a one-year period. This finding is part of a comprehensive report on the everyday experiences and attitudes of police officers, conducted by the German Police University.
The study (Motivation, Einstellung und Gewalt im Alltag von Polizeibeamtinnen und -beamten or MEGAVO-Studie), which focused on the officers’ observations of interactions among colleagues and between police and citizens, is considered to be the largest empirical police research in Germany to date.
Around one in three police officers stated that they had heard racist remarks from colleagues within a year. Sexist remarks were noticed by over 40% of respondents during the same period, with 10% stating such comments occurred more than ten times within a year. Additionally, 3% of officers reported having observed corrupt behaviour among their colleagues.
These figures indicate a worrying level of problematic behaviour. However, the study cautioned that these percentages do not directly correspond to the number of incidents, as a single case of misconduct could be witnessed by multiple officers.
Despite witnessing racism, sexism or corruption, most respondents admitted that they did not personally intervene. The study noted that the lack of direct reporting does not imply that such incidents were never reported, as third parties could have filed complaints.
The study also examined officers’ attitudes toward minorities. It found a rise in problematic views, particularly anti-Muslim sentiment, which increased from 11% in the first survey (November 2021 to October 2022) to 17% in the second (November 2023 to March 2024). Moreover, there was an increase in chauvinistic and authoritarian views, with opposition to asylum-seekers rising from 30% to 42%.
The study also shows positive results. The professional motivation and identification of police officers are very high, as is the assessment of teamwork, it reveals.
The study highlighted factors that motivate officers, such as camaraderie and recognition for their work, but also identified challenges, including difficult cases like child-related crimes, bureaucratic workloads and a lack of personnel.
Overall, the study paints a differentiated picture of the German police. It shows both positive aspects and areas that urgently need improvement. The results emphasise the need for continuous research and reforms in the police system in order to ensure modern, citizen-oriented and non-discriminatory police work. Recommendations include mandatory training in intercultural skills and the nationwide introduction of control receipts for identity checks.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, a member of the SPD, responded to the findings by reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards right-wing extremism, racism and other forms of discrimination. She emphasized the need for a transparent culture of accountability and efforts to prevent prejudice and discrimination within the police force.
The minister also noted that police officers work around the clock under difficult, sometimes life-threatening conditions. They defend the rule of law and democracy, and for that, they deserve respect and appreciation, she added
The President of the Police Union (GdP), Jochen Kopelke, stressed that staff shortages are a significant issue, contributing to increased stress and sickness among officers. He called for a more holistic approach to address the rising aggression faced by police.
Felix Dappah
