Over One Million Sign Petition for Nationwide Fireworks Ban in Germany

The debate over private fireworks reignites after deadly incidents and violence during New Year's celebrations, but key political leaders oppose a total ban.

A petition initiated by the Berlin branch of the Police Union advocating for a nationwide ban on private fireworks has gained over 1.13 million signatures following New Year's incidents.
The petition cites five deaths, numerous injuries, and attacks on emergency personnel as reasons for prohibiting private use of fireworks in Germany.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser oppose a nationwide ban, instead suggesting stricter regulations and localized firework restriction zones.
Critics, including environmental and medical organizations, argue for a ban due to safety concerns, air pollution, and waste, while proponents of fireworks emphasize enforcement against illegal explosives as the real issue.
Discussions continue over potential changes to the Sprengstoffrecht (explosives law) to grant municipalities greater authority to implement local restrictions.