#1In Deutschland dürfen Menschen offen etwas gegen die Regierung sagen, weil...
In Germany, people are allowed to openly speak against the government because...
Quick Controls
The correct answer is:
here freedom of speech applies
hier Meinungsfreiheit gilt
Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.
Quick explanation
People are generally allowed to criticise the government.
Why is this correct?
Freedom of expression protects the open communication of political opinions, subject to legal limits that protect other people.
Background
Freedom of expression is set out in Article 5 of the Basic Law. Everyone may freely express their opinion in speech, writing and pictures – even when the government does not like it. Criticising politicians, demonstrating and publishing critical newspaper articles are therefore part of everyday life in Germany. There are still limits: insults, defamation and incitement to hatred are criminal offences. Factual or even sharp criticism, however, is protected.
Why are the other answers wrong?
Freedom of religion (Article 4) protects belief, not political statements. Paying taxes does not give anyone a special right to criticise – freedom of expression also applies to people without an income. The right to vote is a trap: it is also a democratic right, but it concerns casting a vote in elections, not speaking openly.
Memory tip
Look for the word “speak”: whoever may speak freely has freedom of expression.
Legal basis: Art. 5 Basic Law (GG) ↗
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