#276Was sollten Sie tun, wenn Sie von Ihrem Ansprechpartner / Ihrer Ansprechpartnerin in einer deutschen Behörde schlecht behandelt werden?
What should you do if you are treated poorly by your contact person in a German authority?
Quick Controls
The correct answer is:
I can complain to the authority's supervisor.
Ich kann mich beim Behördenleiter / bei der Behördenleiterin beschweren.
Independent study resource, not a BAMF website. Translations are study aids; the exam is in German.
Quick explanation
If you are treated badly at a public authority, you can complain to the head of the authority.
Why is this correct?
This kind of complaint is called a supervisory complaint (Dienstaufsichtsbeschwerde); it is free of charge and has no deadline.
Background
Civil servants and public employees must also treat citizens respectfully and correctly. Anyone treated rudely, condescendingly or unfairly can complain in writing to the management of the authority. Against a decision by the authority, such as a rejected application, you can also file an objection or go to court. Everyone also has the right to address requests and complaints to parliament (right of petition, Article 17). Advice centres and anti-discrimination offices can also help.
Why are the other answers wrong?
You do not have to put up with bad treatment and can do something about it. Threatening a person, however, is not allowed and can even be a criminal offence.
Memory tip
Treated badly? Stay calm and complain to the management.
Legal basis: Art. 17 Basic Law (GG) ↗
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