Protecting the Constitution is protecting every citizen

All democrats should agree that the Constitution needs protection to safeguard human rights, freedom, and democracy. The Basic Law has therefore created a vigilant democracy, including a comprehensive system to protect the Constitution.

For example, the Federal Constitutional Court may declare the forfeiture of basic rights if they are misused to fight the free democratic basic order. Parties and other associations may be banned if they aim at harming or overthrowing this order. The police, public prosecutors and the courts prosecute criminal offences directed against the existence of the State or its Constitution. However, the German domestic intelligence services do not take action against critical citizens or radical views. In Germany, criticism is not frowned upon, but welcome. Even radical views are legitimate.

The decisive factors are the citizens' basic principles and their willingness to actively promote democracy and human dignity.