Progress: 16 / 4603%

#16Wann ist die Meinungsfreiheit in Deutschland eingeschränkt?

When is freedom of speech restricted in Germany?

Quick Controls

1-4Pick answer←Previous question→Next questionFToggle favoriteGJump to question
The correct answer is:

when publicly spreading false claims about individuals

bei der öffentlichen Verbreitung falscher Behauptungen über einzelne Personen

Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.

Official question catalogue (BAMF) ↗

All 300 German citizenship test questions →

Quick explanation

False factual claims about individuals may be restricted.

Why is this correct?

Freedom of expression protects criticism and opinions, but not every untrue assertion that violates personality rights.

Background

Freedom of expression is limited, among other things, by the “right to personal honour” (Article 5(2)). Anyone who publicly spreads false facts about a specific person can commit a criminal offence, for example defamation or slander. Those affected can also demand that the false claim be deleted or retracted. An opinion (“I think she is a bad politician”) is protected; an invented fact (“she stole money”) is not.

Why are the other answers wrong?

Opinions about the federal government, discussions about religions and criticism of the state are covered by freedom of expression. In fact, criticism of the government and the state is exactly what freedom of expression is meant to protect.

Memory tip

Opinions are free – false claims about people are not.

Legal basis: Art. 5 Basic Law (GG) ↗

Leben in Deutschland © 2026