Following the ban on “Compact”, the question arises as to the legal implications. Are there also threats of punishment for people who simply own such a magazine?
The possible consequences of the ban on the right-wing extremist magazine “Compact” are causing discussions, especially online. Some owners of copies of the magazine fear that they too could now be in trouble.
claim
Due to the ban, even the mere possession of “Compact” magazines is now a criminal offense.
Evaluation
Wrong. However, sharing information can have consequences.
Facts
The ban issued by the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) on July 16 affects the media company that publishes the “Compact” magazine, Compact-Magazin GmbH, as well as Conspect Film GmbH. In the BMI’s view, both companies are acting against the constitutional order. The magazine has not been allowed to appear since then. Legally, this step amounts to a ban on an association. “Compact” is fighting against this before the Federal Administrative Court.
However, the ban has no effect on owners of a “Compact” magazine: “The mere possession of “Compact” magazines does not constitute a criminal offense in itself,” explained a BMI spokesperson in response to a dpa query. This is because, legally speaking, the ban on associations is primarily aimed at companies and prohibits them as organizations.
How magazine owners could still be committing a criminal offense
Consequences are to be expected, especially if the magazines are distributed further. The ban also means that Compact logos and symbols are no longer permitted. According to the Association Act, they may no longer be used publicly at a meeting “for the duration of the ban’s enforceability”. In addition, any form of distribution of the magazines is now punishable – for example by sale. This can also include sharing Compact videos with the prohibited symbols.
Exceptions apply, however, if the symbols are used, for example, to educate people about unconstitutional activities.
It remains to be seen whether the “Compact” ban will hold up. Ultimately, the courts will have to decide whether the ministry’s actions are legal.
BMI press release of 16 July 2024
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
