33 arson attacks on churches in one year. More than in any other EU country. These are not just disturbing figures from the Oidac report – they are signs of a social development that we have underestimated for far too long. In Germany, churches are often treated as if they were nothing more than historical backdrops or tourist attractions. But that is a dangerous misconception.
Churches and parish halls are places of identity, remembrance and social cohesion. They are cultural heritage sites, spiritual spaces and often the last open houses in an increasingly fragmented society. And they are becoming targets – in Germany, in France, in Spain. Pressure is growing across Europe.
The debate about values that we don’t want to have
The rising number of anti-Christian crimes is more than just a crime statistic – it is an expression of a societal devaluation of religious symbols.
Religion, especially Christianity, has long since ceased to be a matter of course in Germany, as it was in previous decades. But does that mean that its places are less worthy of protection?
Quite the contrary:
if a society allows sacred or culturally significant spaces to be damaged, desecrated or burned, it loses a piece of its own orientation.
But this discussion hardly ever takes place – neither in talk shows nor in parliaments. It is uncomfortable because it raises questions about tolerance, respect and our cultural identity.
Technology is necessary – but never sufficient
The reality is that
- many churches have hardly any technical security measures in place.
- No cameras, no early fire detection, unsecured access points, poorly lit outdoor areas.
Yet the means are available:
- Intelligent video analysis that detects suspicious movements
- Special sensors that report fires in old roof trusses within seconds
- Smart lighting that deters perpetrators
- Networked alarms directly to the police or control centre
The police and state security services have been emphasising for years that sacred buildings are at risk – but there is a lack of nationwide standards, clear responsibilities and political priority.
A fatal contradiction: We are aware of the danger, but we are not taking systematic action against it.
Without the public, without the neighbourhood, without witnesses – there is no security
Despite all the technology, one thing remains clear:
churches are at the heart of our towns and villages. They are part of the public sphere. And their security also depends on this public sphere.
- In France, residents have prevented several attacks by reporting unusual activity.
- In Spain, information from neighbours led to the arrest of several groups of perpetrators.
- Germany needs this culture of ‘public witnesses’ – people who look instead of looking away.
No vigilante justice, no alarmism. But active vigilance:
- Anyone who sees people with tools at a church at night calls 110.
- Anyone who sees flames or smoke acts immediately.
- Communities and neighbourhoods must work together to form prevention networks.
Security comes from cooperation – not from isolation
Protecting churches means:
- Recognising values: These places are important – culturally, historically and socially.
- Using technology: Modern security solutions are essential today, not optional.
- Strengthening authorities: The police and state security services need accurate data, clear responsibilities and political backing.
- Involving the public: Security only works when local people are vigilant.
The appeal
We are at a point where Germany must decide what cultural and religious sites are worth to it.
Do we want to stand by and watch churches burn down – or do we want to protect them?
- Looking away is not an option.
- Not for the security authorities.
- Not for politicians.
- Not for technology.
- And not for us as a society.
