The Postulates of German Police Law

The paper examines the fundamental definitions of German police law and law of public safety (Polizeiund Ordnungsrecht). It emphasizes the unique structure of public order maintenance in Germany, which includes a unified system (Einheitssystem) and a decentralized structure present in twelve of the sixteen federal states (Länder). The objective differences in the structural organization of police authorities are explained by national specificities and historical traditions of state-building in Germany. The concept of πόλις (polis) is fundamental in relation to Polizei; it is on the basis of this Greek term that the forms and methods of police activity are characterized, rather than merely the law enforcement body itself. In Germany, the Federal Criminal Police Service (BKA) plays a special role in coordinating law enforcement activities at the federal and regional levels. The processing of personal data for law enforcement purposes is considered in Germany as a form of police activity, which is highly significant for the special part of German administrative law (Besonderes Verwaltungsrecht). In these cases, the BKA acts as a coordinator of the activities of federal and state police authorities. The possession, use, and dissemination of personal data are subject to constant parliamentary control.