One million sign petition to ban private use of fireworks in Germany After New Year’s Incidents

A petition advocating a nationwide ban on private fireworks in Germany has garnered over one million signatures following another turbulent New Year’s celebration marked by injuries, arrests, and incidents of violence.

Initiated by the German Police Union (GdP) in Berlin, the petition has amassed 1.01 million supporters, according to the German news agency dpa. The union emphasized that the overwhelming response signifies a clear public demand for change.

“This New Year’s Eve crossed all boundaries. The unprecedented violence faced by our emergency personnel must end,” the GdP declared in a statement on X. The petition calls for immediate restrictions on private firework usage, framing it as an essential step to protect first responders and ensure public safety during future celebrations.

Despite the surge in support, prominent government figures, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, remain opposed to an outright ban. Both have expressed concerns about restricting the traditional practice, which remains popular in many parts of the country.