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Germany's Outdated Law Jails Thousands for Transport Fines

8/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Each year in Germany, 8,000-9,000 individuals, mostly from low-income backgrounds, find themselves behind bars for unpaid public transport fines. This harsh reality stems from Section 265a of the Criminal Code, a remnant of Nazi-era laws. Despite widespread public backing, a reform to treat fare evasion as a mere administrative issue was rejected, leaving many in despair.

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Story summary

Each year in Germany, 8,000-9,000 individuals, mostly from low-income backgrounds, find themselves behind bars for unpaid public transport fines. This harsh reality stems from Section 265a of the Criminal Code, a remnant of Nazi-era laws. Despite widespread public backing, a reform to treat fare evasion as a mere administrative issue was rejected, leaving many in despair.