We are all happy when we have someone we can confide in, to whom we can complain about our suffering. If some wise advice is given, even better. But what if there is a problem with confidentiality or we have to fear that the state would have access to the confidential words? Nobody would willingly put themselves in such danger.
Social workers are often such confidants. Young people in leisure clubs and women at risk of violence find support with them. We consider it self-evident that the information is treated confidentially. In football, it is the fan projects in which social workers are employed who primarily look after young fans. Fan projects are a point of contact not only when it comes to questions about meaningful leisure activities, but also when there is a need for discussion. It is often the case that young people prefer not to tell their parents anything. Annoyingly, employees of fan projects, unlike colleagues in other social areas, have no legal right to refuse to testify. In the past, these confidants were often called as witnesses by investigative authorities.
There is currently a case in Karlsruhe that could endanger the existence of those involved. Three employees of the Karlsruhe fan project were supposed to testify as witnesses – which they refused. Therefore, all three were sanctioned with a penalty order from the Karlsruhe district court at 120 daily rates. If the punishment orders become final, they will be considered to have a criminal record and could lose their jobs. For years, committed fans and fan project organizers have been fighting for changes to the criminal procedure code – precisely so that social work employees can enjoy the right to refuse to testify.
In a traffic light coalition that is committed to more rule of law, there must finally be a change to Section 53 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. If this does not succeed, this will affect the foundations of the fan project institution. No fan should have to fear that their trust will be betrayed, that their worries and fears will even end up with the police and public prosecutor’s office.
“Sport free!” from the fan advocate.
