Court Rules Against ZDF and Böhmermann Over False Claims About Ex-Cybersecurity Chief

Arne Schönbohm wins legal battle as court bans four statements from ZDF's satirical show but denies compensation request.

The Munich Regional Court ruled that four out of five statements made by Jan Böhmermann on the ZDF show 'Magazin Royale' were false and violated Arne Schönbohm's personal rights.
The court determined that the claims, including alleged ties to Russian intelligence, were unfounded and harmful to Schönbohm's reputation.
Schönbohm's demand for €100,000 in damages was denied, with the court citing insufficient grounds for financial compensation in press-related cases.
The legal decision follows Schönbohm's removal as head of Germany's cybersecurity agency in 2022 after the broadcast, which he claims irreparably damaged his career and personal life.
The case has sparked calls for accountability at ZDF, with Schönbohm demanding internal reviews and public apologies, while the broadcaster plans to evaluate the ruling for potential next steps.