Legacy of Racist Nuremberg Laws Still Lingers in Germany
BERLIN, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 14, 2025
The legacy of the racist Nuremberg Laws, enacted by Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime in 1935, continues to impact modern-day Germany. The laws stripped Jewish Germans and other minority groups of their citizenship, leading to widespread persecution and genocide.
According to the German constitution, also known as the Basic Law, a person is considered German if they hold a German passport. Citizenship cannot be revoked, and discriminating against citizens based on their religion, origin, or language is prohibited. However, 80 years after the end of Nazi rule, these fundamental values are being increasingly questioned.
"Whether you're German is decided between the lines," said Dr. Ruth Knoblauch, a historian at the University of Berlin. "The Nuremberg Laws created a system where people were arbitrarily denied their German identity."
The Nuremberg Laws were part of a broader effort by the Nazi regime to dehumanize and marginalize minority groups. The laws prohibited marriage between Jews and non-Jews, restricted Jewish access to education and employment, and stripped Jews of their citizenship.
"We must not forget the lessons of history," said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a statement. "The Nuremberg Laws were a grave injustice that led to unimaginable suffering. We must continue to work towards a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect."
However, some critics argue that Germany's current policies do not go far enough in addressing the legacy of the Nuremberg Laws.
"The Basic Law is clear on citizenship, but it doesn't address the systemic inequalities that still exist today," said Dr. Ayman Abou-El-Enein, a sociologist at the University of Hamburg. "We need to acknowledge the ongoing impact of colonialism and racism in Germany."
The German government has taken steps to address these concerns, including establishing a commission to investigate historical injustices and providing funding for projects aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion.
Despite these efforts, many Germans continue to grapple with questions about identity and belonging. A recent survey found that nearly 40% of respondents believed that being German was not just about holding a passport, but also about cultural and social ties.
As Germany continues to navigate its complex history, policymakers and citizens alike must confront the ongoing impact of the Nuremberg Laws and work towards creating a more inclusive society for all.
*Reporting by Dw.*
