The German government has approved a significant reform aimed at enhancing the capabilities of its intelligence agencies, allowing them to take proactive measures against potential threats. This shift marks a departure from their traditional roles focused solely on information gathering.

In a landmark decision, the German Cabinet has greenlit a reform that will grant the Federal Intelligence Service and the Office for the Protection of the Constitution expanded operational powers. This change is intended to enable these agencies to neutralize threats, such as explosives, from potential attackers, reflecting a critical shift in national security strategy.

Chancellor and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt emphasized the need for Germany to bolster its intelligence capabilities, citing increasing risks from espionage, sabotage, and cyberattacks. The reform aims to transition the Office for the Protection of the Constitution from a domestic intelligence agency to a full-fledged secret service with the authority to conduct covert operations.

The proposed legislation, comprising over 700 pages, outlines changes to three key laws governing the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the Federal Intelligence Service, and oversight mechanisms. With the goal of passing these reforms through the Bundestag and Bundesrat by the end of the year, the government plans for the new powers to take effect on January 1.