‘Germany planning to charge rights activists with smuggling’

Louise Michel, an organization that combines sea rescue with principles of feminism, anti racism, and anti facism has alleged plans by the German authorities to remove crucial definitions regarding irregular immigration and charge human rights activists involved in civil sea rescue with smuggling.

Louise Michel said the German Government recently announced, via a note hidden within legal speak, a proposal for a change in law which would remove crucial definitions regarding irregular immigration and those considered to be “supporting” it.

It said: “Until now, the definition of a so-called smuggler was someone who received personal benefits in return, usually in the form of monetary gain. Now, the German government wants to remove that crucial definition from the law.”

As a result, Louise Michel said “Human Rights Activists who support people in distress at sea could be charged with smuggling. Essentially this change in wording would mean that upholding international law, by protecting life at sea, could result in criminal charges.

“But, as so often, it is not about us. The aim is to criminalise migration itself and demonise people on the move, while also criminalising those who act to save lives. This is not acceptable! The Louise Michel stands for the freedom of movement for everyone without prejudice!”