German Union Leader Rejects Adding 'Sexual Identity' to Basic Law

Thorsten Frei, the leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has rejected calls to explicitly include "sexual identity" in Germany's Basic Law anti-discrimination provisions. Frei stated that he does not consider such an addition necessary, viewing it as a "symbolic step" that would "overburden" the constitution.

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I do not consider that necessary.

Frei's comments come after the SPD renewed its demand for a legal amendment to Article 3 of the Basic Law, following an attack that occurred on the sidelines of a Christopher Street Day (CSD) event in Berlin. The current article prohibits discrimination based on gender, origin, race, language, homeland, belief, or political or religious views.

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I understand the desire of the 'queer community', but it is a 'symbolic step' that would 'overburden' the constitution.

Frei asserted that the existing anti-discrimination clause in the Basic Law already prohibits "discrimination of all kinds," a stance that has been repeatedly confirmed by the Federal Constitutional Court. He expressed understanding for the concerns of the "queer community" but argued that adding "sexual identity" would not provide greater security for queer individuals.

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The Basic Law article prohibits 'discrimination of all kinds'.

Additionally, Frei voiced his opposition to flying the rainbow flag on the Reichstag building for future CSD events, stating that "motto flags do not belong on the Reichstag." The decision on flag displays rests with the President of the Bundestag.

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Even though I can understand the situation of those affected, it does not create more security for queer people.