Berlin is set to undertake a constitutional reform aimed at safeguarding its constitutional court from political influence, as announced by Justice Senator Felor Badenberg from the CDU party. The reform, developed in coordination with the SPD, Greens, and Left parties, proposes amendments to Article 84 of the Berlin Constitution, particularly addressing the election of judges, the court's autonomy, and defining the court as a constitutional body. This move seeks to reinforce the integrity of the judiciary amidst increasing concerns regarding political overreach.

The initiative comes in response to mounting pressure from legal experts and the observed vulnerability of state constitutional courts across Germany to political influence. Badenberg emphasized the importance of ensuring that the judiciary remains a dependable anchor for democracy, especially in tumultuous times. By amending the constitution, Berlin aims to align itself with modern democratic standards and protect the judicial system from external pressures.

The reference to Hungary in the context of the announcement underscores the urgency of the reform, highlighting the need to learn from other countries where judicial independence has been compromised. Advocates of the reform argue that a robust judiciary is fundamental to the rule of law, asserting that the proposed changes are not only timely but also essential for maintaining democratic ideals in Berlin and beyond.