No, cannibalism is a criminal offense in Germany under § 168 of the Criminal Code (StGB), which prohibits violations of human dignity and bodily integrity, even in consensual contexts. The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) has upheld convictions for acts involving the consumption of human flesh, treating them as aggravated bodily harm or manslaughter. While no recent 2026 legislative shifts exist, prosecutors rely on existing statutes to address such cases, ensuring strict enforcement.
Key Regulations for Cannibalism in Germany
- § 168 StGB (Violation of the Peace of the Dead): Prohibits desecration of human remains, including consumption, regardless of consent. Penalties range from fines to 3 years imprisonment.
- § 216 StGB (Killing at the Request of the Victim): Applies if cannibalism involves premeditated killing, even with explicit consent, as German law invalidates consent for life-endangering acts.
- § 226a StGB (Grave Bodily Harm): Covers severe harm resulting from cannibalistic acts, with penalties up to 10 years imprisonment if permanent damage or death occurs.
Local enforcement is overseen by state prosecutors and the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), which monitor extreme cases. The Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) has not proposed amendments, reinforcing the prohibition’s permanence. Consensual acts remain unrecognized under German jurisprudence, aligning with EU human rights frameworks.