Amidst growing controversies, Germans are choosing to disassociate themselves from the church. Over 500 thousand people have left the German catholic church in 2022. The exodus of church-goers has gone up by 45 percent in just one year. Recently, the cardinal of cologne was raided by police authorities for perjury allegations.

German catholic church loses 500,000 people amidst grave allegations

Germany has recorded&nbsp;that climate activists from the Last Generation or Letzte Generation have allegedly committed 580 criminal offences, reported German weekly Bild am Sonntag, citing the country’s interior minister, on Sunday (June 11). This comes weeks after the German police carried out raids across seven states targeting activists from the climate advocacy group.&nbsp;

<h2>What can the activists&nbsp;be accused of?</h2>

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser told the German weekly that the country’s Federal Criminal Police Office in its first-ever report of the situation has said 580 criminal charges can be assigned to the Last Generation since the beginning of last year. This comes as some 740 people have “come to the attention of the police,” Faeser told Bild.&nbsp;

The climate activist group has been using controversial methods of protest in Germany which have included glueing themselves on the road. Faeser also told Bild that most of the potential charges are “mainly about coercion and property damage”.&nbsp;

<h2>Interior minister criticises group’s methods of protest&nbsp;</h2>

During the interview with the German newspaper, the interior minister spoke about how it is unacceptable for the activists to “violate the rights of others”.&nbsp;

Speaking about their methods of protest, Fraser also said it is not helping climate protection and on the contrary activists are “massively damaging” their chances of being accepted or raising awareness.&nbsp;

However, the Last Generation activists have previously said that their rights are being violated by companies, lawmakers, and people who are not doing enough to protect the environment.&nbsp;

The group has been making headlines in different countries with protests like road blockades to throwing soup on famous artworks, steps which have garnered both support and criticism. Additionally, last week, a member of the climate advocacy group was charged a $430 fine for damage to property after a protest at the Audimax of Hamburg University.&nbsp;

<h2>Police crackdown last month</h2>

The police in Germany, in late May, conducted raids shortly after the group’s street blockades which aimed at investigating seven people aged between 22 to 38, for allegedly supporting or attempting to create a criminal organisation. In a statement, the police said that the suspects have been accused of “organising a fundraising campaign to finance the criminal acts committed” by Last Generation.&nbsp;

It added that they were “propagating these acts on their website and collecting a sum of at least 1.4 million euros ($1.5 million) in donations”. According to environmentalists in the country, the lawmakers in Germany have put their climate policies on the back burner as Europe was grappling with an energy crisis.&nbsp;

Speaking of their demands from the German government, Last Generation told WION, shortly after the raids, that there is a need for a “social council that leads us out of the climate crisis in a socially just way.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Germany has recorded that climate activists from the Last Generation or Letzte Generation have allegedly committed 580 criminal offences, reported German weekly Bild am Sonntag, citing the country’s interior minister, on Sunday (June 11).

Germany has recorded that climate activists from the Last Generation or Letzte Generation have allegedly committed 580 criminal offences, reported German weekly Bild am Sonntag, citing the country’s interior minister, on Sunday (June 11). This comes weeks after the German police carried out raids across seven states targeting activists from the climate advocacy group. What can the activists be accused of? Interior Minister Nancy Faeser told the German weekly that the country’s Federal Criminal Police Office in its first-ever report of the situation has said 580 criminal charges can be assigned to the Last Generation since the beginning of last year. This comes as some 740 people have “come to the attention of the police,” Faeser told Bild. The climate activist group has been using controversial methods of protest in Germany which have included glueing themselves on the road. Faeser also told Bild that most of the potential charges are “mainly about coercion and property damage”. Interior minister criticises group’s methods of protest During the interview with the German newspaper, the interior minister spoke about how it is unacceptable for the activists to “violate the rights of others”. Speaking about their methods of protest, Fraser also said it is not helping climate protection and on the contrary activists are “massively damaging” their chances of being accepted or raising awareness. However, the Last Generation activists have previously said that their rights are being violated by companies, lawmakers, and people who are not doing enough to protect the environment. The group has been making headlines in different countries with protests like road blockades to throwing soup on famous artworks, steps which have garnered both support and criticism. Additionally, last week, a member of the climate advocacy group was charged a $430 fine for damage to property after a protest at the Audimax of Hamburg University. Police crackdown last month The police in Germany, in late May, conducted raids shortly after the group’s street blockades which aimed at investigating seven people aged between 22 to 38, for allegedly supporting or attempting to create a criminal organisation. In a statement, the police said that the suspects have been accused of “organising a fundraising campaign to finance the criminal acts committed” by Last Generation. It added that they were “propagating these acts on their website and collecting a sum of at least 1.4 million euros ($1.5 million) in donations”. According to environmentalists in the country, the lawmakers in Germany have put their climate policies on the back burner as Europe was grappling with an energy crisis. Speaking of their demands from the German government, Last Generation told WION, shortly after the raids, that there is a need for a “social council that leads us out of the climate crisis in a socially just way.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate activists in Germany accused of 580 offences

The lost city of Rungholt, which was believed to have been drowned by the sea more than 650 years ago as a punishment for its inhabitants’ sins, has been mapped for the first time.

According to archaeological evidence, the city—which is known as the German Atlantis—is located off the coast of northern Germany. It was swallowed by the North Sea in a single night following a heavy storm.

Due to the several myths surrounding the city, many believed it to be nothing more than a figment of imagination. But the latest evidence has indicated that there was indeed such a city that existed till 1362.

The archaeologists have uncovered the remains of this "northern Atlantis" in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea (approximately 392 km from North Sea).

The team from Christian-Albrecht University in Kiel found approximately <a name="_Hlk136874810">1.2 miles </a>(1.9 km) of medieval mounds around an island now known as Südfall after mapping the site with a geophysical survey.

"Settlement remains hidden under the mudflats are first localised and mapped over a wide area using various geophysical methods such as magnetic gradiometry, electromagnetic induction, and seismic," Dennis Wilken, a geophysicist at Kiel University, said of the research in a&nbsp;press release.

During the survey, they found a harbour, the foundations of a large church, and drainage systems.

The press release states that the researchers are working against the clock, as the conditions are becoming inimical to the remains.

"The medieval settlement remains are already heavily eroded and often only detectable as negative imprints," Hanna Hadler, who works at the Institute of Geography at Mainz University, said.

<h2>Myths abound&nbsp;</h2>

Local folklore claims that the city was punished due to the sins committed by its inhabitants, which included flaunting of wealth, drunkenness, and impiety, the Times reported.

It is believed that the abundance of wealth morally corrupted the inhabitants, and the decadence reached its peak around Christmas when a gang of young drunkards tried to force a priest to give a pig the last sacrament at a local inn.

Infuriated with the act, the cleric then went to the church and prayed and asked God to punish the young men. He left town the next day, and shortly after, the great storm hit that wiped Rungholt off the face of the Earth.

In medieval legends, the sound of its bell tower could be heard from the depths of the North Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The lost city of Rungholt, which was believed to have been drowned by the sea more than 650 years ago as a punishment for its inhabitants’ sins, has been mapped for the first time.

The lost city of Rungholt, which was believed to have been drowned by the sea more than 650 years ago as a punishment for its inhabitants’ sins, has been mapped for the first time. According to archaeological evidence, the city—which is known as the German Atlantis—is located off the coast of northern Germany. It was swallowed by the North Sea in a single night following a heavy storm. Due to the several myths surrounding the city, many believed it to be nothing more than a figment of imagination. But the latest evidence has indicated that there was indeed such a city that existed till 1362. The archaeologists have uncovered the remains of this "northern Atlantis" in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea (approximately 392 km from North Sea). The team from Christian-Albrecht University in Kiel found approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 km) of medieval mounds around an island now known as Südfall after mapping the site with a geophysical survey. "Settlement remains hidden under the mudflats are first localised and mapped over a wide area using various geophysical methods such as magnetic gradiometry, electromagnetic induction, and seismic," Dennis Wilken, a geophysicist at Kiel University, said of the research in a press release. During the survey, they found a harbour, the foundations of a large church, and drainage systems. The press release states that the researchers are working against the clock, as the conditions are becoming inimical to the remains. "The medieval settlement remains are already heavily eroded and often only detectable as negative imprints," Hanna Hadler, who works at the Institute of Geography at Mainz University, said. Myths abound Local folklore claims that the city was punished due to the sins committed by its inhabitants, which included flaunting of wealth, drunkenness, and impiety, the Times reported. It is believed that the abundance of wealth morally corrupted the inhabitants, and the decadence reached its peak around Christmas when a gang of young drunkards tried to force a priest to give a pig the last sacrament at a local inn. Infuriated with the act, the cleric then went to the church and prayed and asked God to punish the young men. He left town the next day, and shortly after, the great storm hit that wiped Rungholt off the face of the Earth. In medieval legends, the sound of its bell tower could be heard from the depths of the North Sea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Lost city of Rungholt, wiped off 650 years ago due to inhabitants’ sins, mapped for first time

A 450-metre-long motorway bridge in western Germany was successfully demolished on Sunday, 7 May.&nbsp;

In recent years, there have been concerns about the safety of the A45 Rahmedetal motorway bridge.&nbsp;

The bridge had been shut down to traffic since 2 December 2021, which is about 17 months, due to cracks and damages in it.&nbsp;

The bridge was shut down over safety concerns.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/french-startup-will-take-to-take-people-to-space-in-a-balloon-heres-how-590070">French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how</a>

The Rahmede Valley Bridge was 453 metre long, 70 meters high, and weighed 17,000 tonnes. On demolition day, it collapsed into a drop bed just in a matter of seconds.

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VIDEO: Crowds gather to watch the demolition of German motorway bridge. 
 
The A45 Rahmedetal motorway bridge had been closed to traffic since 2 December 2021 due to cracks and damage <a href="https://t.co/VwYOTK7u07">pic.twitter.com/VwYOTK7u07</a>
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About 150 kilograms of explosives were used at the blast site in Lüdenscheid, North Rhine-Westphalia. Built between 1965 and 1968, the motorway bridge that is now demolished spanned over Rahmede Valley.

Crowds gathered to see the German highway bridge being destroyed on the day of the demolition.&nbsp;

The demolition of the Rahmede Bridge is an important step in ensuring the safety of the communities it serves.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-sympathises-with-koreas-colonial-victims-stops-short-of-offering-apology-590066">Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology</a>

The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of infrastructure to ensure its safety and integrity.

As many as 50 stacked containers were used to create a barrier to protect neighbouring buildings. Additional devices were also mounted on windows.

Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion

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By 10th June , all debris left over after the explosion is to be removed. Lüdenscheid ran the live broadcast of the demolition. The new bridge should take five years to build, according to reports.&nbsp;

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A 450-metre-long motorway bridge in western Germany was successfully demolished on Sunday, 7 May. In recent years, there have been concerns about the safety of the A45 Rahmedetal motorway bridge.

A 450-metre-long motorway bridge in western Germany was successfully demolished on Sunday, 7 May. In recent years, there have been concerns about the safety of the A45 Rahmedetal motorway bridge. The bridge had been shut down to traffic since 2 December 2021, which is about 17 months, due to cracks and damages in it. The bridge was shut down over safety concerns. Also Read | French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how The Rahmede Valley Bridge was 453 metre long, 70 meters high, and weighed 17,000 tonnes. On demolition day, it collapsed into a drop bed just in a matter of seconds. VIDEO: Crowds gather to watch the demolition of German motorway bridge. The A45 Rahmedetal motorway bridge had been closed to traffic since 2 December 2021 due to cracks and damage pic.twitter.com/VwYOTK7u07 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) May 8, 2023 × About 150 kilograms of explosives were used at the blast site in Lüdenscheid, North Rhine-Westphalia. Built between 1965 and 1968, the motorway bridge that is now demolished spanned over Rahmede Valley. Crowds gathered to see the German highway bridge being destroyed on the day of the demolition. The demolition of the Rahmede Bridge is an important step in ensuring the safety of the communities it serves. Also Read | Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of infrastructure to ensure its safety and integrity. As many as 50 stacked containers were used to create a barrier to protect neighbouring buildings. Additional devices were also mounted on windows. Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion × By 10th June , all debris left over after the explosion is to be removed. Lüdenscheid ran the live broadcast of the demolition. The new bridge should take five years to build, according to reports. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Moment when 450-metre-long German motorway bridge came crashing down

When Adidas' shareholders meet next week, two prominent German investors announced their intention to vote against Adidas AG's management. The Yeezy crisis and poor sales are the top reasons for investors' frustration.

Adidas faces investor unrest

In a first joint operation of its kind, British Royal Air Force (RAF) and German fighter jets on Tuesday (March 14) intercepted a Russian aircraft after it was identified near NATO airspace.

In a first joint operation of its kind, British Royal Air Force (RAF) and German fighter jets on Tuesday (March 14) intercepted a Russian aircraft after it was identified near NATO airspace. The stray Russian aircraft had failed to communicate with the air traffic control in Estonia. Two Typhoon jets, one British and one German, were launched to intercept the Russian Il-78 Midas refuelling plane that was flying between St Petersburg and Kaliningrad. After the Midas aircraft was escorted, the two jets were redirected to intercept an An-148 airliner that had also strayed close to the Estonian airspace. Though the interception of the enemy aircraft was routine, it was the first instance when the two countries collaborated to carry out the operation. Notably, British and German air forces are currently conducting joint NATO operations in the region. "As a fighter pilot, this was a routine business, even though I was flying alongside a German colleague," an unnamed pilot of the Typhoon squadron was quoted as saying by Sky UK. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons × "NATO continues to form the bedrock of our collective security. This joint UK and German deployment in the Baltics clearly demonstrates our collective resolve to challenge any potential threat to NATO's borders, whilst demonstrating our combined strength," said James Heappe, UK Armed forces minister. The incident comes on the same day as the US military's European Command claimed that a Russian Su-27 jet fighter collided with an American MQ-9 Reaper drone. "Our MQ-9 aircraft was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was intercepted and hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and complete loss of the MQ-9," informed General James Hecker, the commander of US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa. Read more: Russian fighter jet hits US drone over Black Sea; US calls it 'reckless' Meanwhile, the Russian side denied causing the crash and the defence ministry released a statement saying it scrambled fighter jets after detecting a US drone over the Black Sea. It remains unclear if the two accidents had any link to each other but it surely has demonstrated the increased risk of superpowers of the world colliding with each other. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace

Germany's defence minister Christine Lambrecht plans to resign as per a government source. This will potentially add to chancellor Olaf Scholz's problems. Watch further to know more.

German Defence minister to step down ?

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has arrived in China, his one-day visit will make him the first G7 leader to visit China since the start of the pandemic. The high-stakes with it is also being closely watched on how serious Germany is about reducing its economic reliance on Asia's rising superpower. WION in an exclusive conversation with Einar Tangen, political and economic commentator.

German Chancellor arrives in China, Scholz's coalition uncertain about its relation with Beijing

A court in western Germany’s Rhineland-Palatinate state has sentenced a 50-year-old man to life imprisonment for killing a gas station worker after being told to wear a mask while buying beer.

The accused, who has been identified as Mario N., surrendered last year after police launched a large-scale manhunt in Idar-Oberstein town, where strong anti-mask and anti-vaccine movement was taking place against the government's COVID-19 restrictions.

According to authorities, the perpetrator confessed to shooting 20-year-old student worker Alex W. out of anger” when he was not allowed to purchase beer.

Afterwards, the accused stormed out and returned to the gas station an hour later, but this time wearing a mask.

Soon, an argument broke out between the two men, following which Mario N. pulled a concealed revolver out of his pocket and shot the worker before fleeing the scene.

During the trial, prosecutor Nicole Frohn said that Mario N. had felt increasingly angry and saw the curb measures as an infringement on his rights, reports DW.

"Since he knew he couldn't reach the politicians responsible, he decided to kill him (Alex W.)," she said, according to AFP news agency.

On Tuesday, Mario N. was convicted of murder and unlawful possession of a firearm, and he was handed a life sentence.

Under German law, those convicted of life sentence can seek parole after 15 years. His defence team were trying to dilute his sentence from murder to manslaughter, but the court rejected their argument.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A court in western Germany’s Rhineland-Palatinate state has sentenced a 50-year-old man to life imprisonment for killing a gas station worker after being told to wear a mask while buying beer.

A court in western Germany’s Rhineland-Palatinate state has sentenced a 50-year-old man to life imprisonment for killing a gas station worker after being told to wear a mask while buying beer. The accused, who has been identified as Mario N., surrendered last year after police launched a large-scale manhunt in Idar-Oberstein town, where strong anti-mask and anti-vaccine movement was taking place against the government's COVID-19 restrictions. According to authorities, the perpetrator confessed to shooting 20-year-old student worker Alex W. out of anger” when he was not allowed to purchase beer. Afterwards, the accused stormed out and returned to the gas station an hour later, but this time wearing a mask. Soon, an argument broke out between the two men, following which Mario N. pulled a concealed revolver out of his pocket and shot the worker before fleeing the scene. During the trial, prosecutor Nicole Frohn said that Mario N. had felt increasingly angry and saw the curb measures as an infringement on his rights, reports DW. "Since he knew he couldn't reach the politicians responsible, he decided to kill him (Alex W.)," she said, according to AFP news agency. On Tuesday, Mario N. was convicted of murder and unlawful possession of a firearm, and he was handed a life sentence. Under German law, those convicted of life sentence can seek parole after 15 years. His defence team were trying to dilute his sentence from murder to manslaughter, but the court rejected their argument. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German man given life sentence for killing cashier over Covid mask rule

Vibrant colors to happy faces, a sea of rainbow was created by a German artist Stephanie Lüning at the London festival. Sea of rainbow was made of water and food colouring, take a look!

German artist Stephanie Lüning showcases interactive art, rainbow colour foam envelops London

The global energy crisis has led the German government to impose a new gas tax on households. The increased rates will be effective from October 1st and last till April 2024.

German tax on gas to support energy firms

German union Verdi has called on staff at seven Amazon distribution centres to strike over Sunday evening’s night shift in a bid to force the retailer to accept the union’s sectoral collective bargaining agreement.

German union Verdi calls for 'Prime Day' strike by Amazon workers

In pics: Top German art show starts amid anti-Semitism row

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red. &nbsp;

With the colour scheme of red and white, the posters vouch for Social Democrat Olaf Scholz. Scholz has unexpectedly jostled himself into pole position to succeed the outgoing chancellor Angela Merkel.

Watch:&nbsp;Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha wins votes of confidence

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Olaf Scholz was vice-chancellor in Germany’s coalition government for four years. Scholz seems to be convincing the public in a better way that he can be the next chancellor than Armin Laschet, the contender, which has been fielded by Merkel’s party. &nbsp;

The polls showed last week that Scholz’s centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) is leading Laschet’s Christian Democratic Union by around 3-5 percentage points. This position was last enjoyed by Germany’s oldest existing party when it won the federal elections under Gerhard Schröder in 2002. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-inquiry-former-aide-of-prince-charles-steps-down-as-charity-boss-410850" hreflang="en">Amid inquiry, former aide of Prince Charles steps down as charity boss</a>

The SPD’s campaign is purely focused around the man it wants to push into the top seat. It has been devised by Raphael Brinkert, a sports marketing specialist, who has run campaigns for footballers like Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich. It shows Scholz as a competent technocrat. &nbsp;

“The SPD has come up with the perfect campaign. It is 100% in tune with Scholz’s message,” said Frank Stauss, a political communication expert.&nbsp;

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red.

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red. With the colour scheme of red and white, the posters vouch for Social Democrat Olaf Scholz. Scholz has unexpectedly jostled himself into pole position to succeed the outgoing chancellor Angela Merkel. Watch: Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha wins votes of confidence × Olaf Scholz was vice-chancellor in Germany’s coalition government for four years. Scholz seems to be convincing the public in a better way that he can be the next chancellor than Armin Laschet, the contender, which has been fielded by Merkel’s party. The polls showed last week that Scholz’s centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) is leading Laschet’s Christian Democratic Union by around 3-5 percentage points. This position was last enjoyed by Germany’s oldest existing party when it won the federal elections under Gerhard Schröder in 2002. Also Read: Amid inquiry, former aide of Prince Charles steps down as charity boss The SPD’s campaign is purely focused around the man it wants to push into the top seat. It has been devised by Raphael Brinkert, a sports marketing specialist, who has run campaigns for footballers like Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich. It shows Scholz as a competent technocrat. “The SPD has come up with the perfect campaign. It is 100% in tune with Scholz’s message,” said Frank Stauss, a political communication expert.

Scholz may be next German chancellor, all thanks to robust poll campaign

An Iraqi court on Monday sentenced a British retired geologist to 15 years in prison for trying to smuggle antiquities out of the country but released a German co-accused, who was found not to have criminal intent in the case.

The maximum penalty for the offence is death by hanging but the court decided on a lesser sentence for James Fitton, 66, "because of the advanced age of the accused," the judge said. Fitton's lawyer said that he would appeal. &nbsp;

The court found "insufficient evidence" to convict co-accused Volker Waldmann, 60, who was visiting Iraq with Fitton on an organised tour when they were arrested in March at Baghdad airport.&nbsp;

War-ravaged Iraq's tourism infrastructure is almost non-existent but the country is timidly opening to visitors. Iraq has also been trying to recover antiquities that were looted over a period of decades from the country whose civilisation dates back thousands of years.

When the judge asked the men whether they were guilty or not guilty "of trafficking antiquities," each replied: "Not guilty."

They appeared in court dressed in yellow prisoners' clothing, but not handcuffed, said an AFP journalist at the hearing. They were charged under a 2002 law against "intentionally taking or trying to take out of Iraq an antiquity".

According to statements from customs officers and witnesses, Fitton's baggage contained about a dozen stone fragments, pieces of pottery or ceramics. Waldmann, a Berlin psychologist, allegedly had two pieces but at the trial's opening on May 15 denied they were his.

When the judge asked Fitton why he tried to take the artefacts out of Iraq, he cited his "hobby" and said he did not mean to do anything illegal. "I didn't realise that taking them was against the law," Fitton said, adding that some of the ancient sites were open and unguarded.

In his verdict, the judge found that Fitton was "aware" that the location from where he collected the fragments was "an archaeological site" and that it was illegal to take them. The judge concluded there was criminal intent.

Defence lawyer Thaer Massoud denied this, and called the judgement "extreme". In Waldmann's case, the judge accepted the defence argument that the German did not know the pieces from Fitton were antiquities.

[With inputs from agencies] 
&nbsp;

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An Iraqi court on Monday sentenced a British retired geologist to 15 years in prison for trying to smuggle antiquities out of the country but released a German co-accused, who was found not to have criminal intent in the case.

An Iraqi court on Monday sentenced a British retired geologist to 15 years in prison for trying to smuggle antiquities out of the country but released a German co-accused, who was found not to have criminal intent in the case. The maximum penalty for the offence is death by hanging but the court decided on a lesser sentence for James Fitton, 66, "because of the advanced age of the accused," the judge said. Fitton's lawyer said that he would appeal. The court found "insufficient evidence" to convict co-accused Volker Waldmann, 60, who was visiting Iraq with Fitton on an organised tour when they were arrested in March at Baghdad airport. War-ravaged Iraq's tourism infrastructure is almost non-existent but the country is timidly opening to visitors. Iraq has also been trying to recover antiquities that were looted over a period of decades from the country whose civilisation dates back thousands of years. When the judge asked the men whether they were guilty or not guilty "of trafficking antiquities," each replied: "Not guilty." They appeared in court dressed in yellow prisoners' clothing, but not handcuffed, said an AFP journalist at the hearing. They were charged under a 2002 law against "intentionally taking or trying to take out of Iraq an antiquity". According to statements from customs officers and witnesses, Fitton's baggage contained about a dozen stone fragments, pieces of pottery or ceramics. Waldmann, a Berlin psychologist, allegedly had two pieces but at the trial's opening on May 15 denied they were his. When the judge asked Fitton why he tried to take the artefacts out of Iraq, he cited his "hobby" and said he did not mean to do anything illegal. "I didn't realise that taking them was against the law," Fitton said, adding that some of the ancient sites were open and unguarded. In his verdict, the judge found that Fitton was "aware" that the location from where he collected the fragments was "an archaeological site" and that it was illegal to take them. The judge concluded there was criminal intent. Defence lawyer Thaer Massoud denied this, and called the judgement "extreme". In Waldmann's case, the judge accepted the defence argument that the German did not know the pieces from Fitton were antiquities. [With inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

British geologist sent to prison for trying to smuggle antiquities out of Iraq

A German train has derailed near a resort town. Investigation into derailment is currently ongoing. 15 of the injured have been taken to the hospital.

German train derails near resort town: Investigation into derailment ongoing

Why has Europe still not been able to cut off the import of Russian oil and gas? German analysts warn of an impending recession with knock-on effects on the world economy.

World at War: Will the war in Ukraine spark a global recession?

German&nbsp;unemployment stayed at five percent in March, figures published Thursday showed, as the war in Ukraine darkened the outlook for Europe's largest economy.

The number out of work went down by 18,000 in March on a seasonally adjusted basis, although the overall joblessness rate remained unchanged from February, the BA federal labour agency said.

Russia's invasion of its neighbour, which has added to supply chain disruptions and sent prices for energy rocketing, has so far only had an "isolated" impact on the labour market, BA regions director Daniel Terzenbach said.

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But the risk that supplies of natural gas and oil from Russia could be cut off if the conflict were to escalate were "weighing on the economic outlook" for Germany, Terzenbach said.

The Ukraine conflict derailed Germany's hopes of growth seeing a surge in economic growth as coronavirus-related health restrictions fell away.

Germany's reliance on imports of Russian gas and the importance to the economy of industry, which has been buffeted by supply bottlenecks, mean the country is particularly exposed to the conflict.&nbsp;

A panel of the government's economic advisers on Wednesday drastically cut their forecast for growth in 2022 to 1.8 percent, down from their previous estimate of 4.6 percent.

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The war was putting "additional strain" on supply chains stretched by the pandemic, while the spike in energy prices was weighing on businesses and consumers, said a member of the expert panel, Achim Truger.

Interruptions to deliveries of key components from suppliers in Ukraine has already led to interruptions in production at a number of&nbsp;German&nbsp;auto manufacturers, including Volkswagen and BMW.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Qatar to help Germany cut reliance on Russian oil amid Ukraine conflict

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatar-to-help-germany-cut-reliance-on-russian-oil-amid-ukraine-conflict-464269/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

German unemployment stayed at five percent in March, figures published Thursday showed, as the war in Ukraine darkened the outlook for Europe's largest economy. The number out of work went down by 18,000 in March on a seasonally adjusted basis, although the overall joblessness rate remained unchanged from February, the BA federal labour agency said.

German unemployment stayed at five percent in March, figures published Thursday showed, as the war in Ukraine darkened the outlook for Europe's largest economy. The number out of work went down by 18,000 in March on a seasonally adjusted basis, although the overall joblessness rate remained unchanged from February, the BA federal labour agency said. Russia's invasion of its neighbour, which has added to supply chain disruptions and sent prices for energy rocketing, has so far only had an "isolated" impact on the labour market, BA regions director Daniel Terzenbach said. Also read | In Delhi, German NSA hopes no 'back filing' of sanctions will take place But the risk that supplies of natural gas and oil from Russia could be cut off if the conflict were to escalate were "weighing on the economic outlook" for Germany, Terzenbach said. The Ukraine conflict derailed Germany's hopes of growth seeing a surge in economic growth as coronavirus-related health restrictions fell away. Germany's reliance on imports of Russian gas and the importance to the economy of industry, which has been buffeted by supply bottlenecks, mean the country is particularly exposed to the conflict. A panel of the government's economic advisers on Wednesday drastically cut their forecast for growth in 2022 to 1.8 percent, down from their previous estimate of 4.6 percent. Also read | Two German states outlaw the display of Russia's 'Z' war symbol The war was putting "additional strain" on supply chains stretched by the pandemic, while the spike in energy prices was weighing on businesses and consumers, said a member of the expert panel, Achim Truger. Interruptions to deliveries of key components from suppliers in Ukraine has already led to interruptions in production at a number of German auto manufacturers, including Volkswagen and BMW. Watch | Qatar to help Germany cut reliance on Russian oil amid Ukraine conflict

German unemployment stable in March as war rattles economy

Russia launches an all-out invasion of Ukraine by land air and sea. Russian President Vladimir Putin says his aim is to demilitarize Ukraine. The German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock has slammed Russia for its aggression against Ukraine, listen in.

German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock slams Russia for its aggression against Ukraine

In a confession made by former Pope Benedict XVI on Monday, he admitted that he was present at a meeting in 1980 where an abusive priest was discussed. He further claimed that he mistakenly told German investigators he was not there.&nbsp;

He has been incriminated over his failure to act over four cases of child sexual abuse during his tenure as the Archbishop of Munich.&nbsp;

The confession came in a statement to the Catholic News Agency through his private secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein. He said that Benedict did attend the meeting but the omission "was the result of an oversight in the editing of the statement" and "not done out of bad faith."

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He further said that no decision was made at the 1980 meeting about a new assignment for the priest. There was only a request to provide him with accommodation during the treatment. "He is very sorry for this mistake and asks to be excused," Ganswein said.

Benedict planned to explain his error after he finishes examining the nearly 2,000-page report, Ganswein added.&nbsp;

"He is carefully reading the statements set down there, which fill him with shame and pain about the suffering inflicted on the victims. A complete review "will take some time due to his age and health."

Meanwhile, the Vatican has expressed shame and remorse for child sexual abuse by Catholic clergy. The Vatican has assured that they are taking this document seriously and will make a comment once after the report has been examined.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a confession made by former Pope Benedict XVI on Monday, he admitted that he was present at a meeting in 1980 where an abusive priest was discussed. He further claimed that he mistakenly told German investigators he was not there.

In a confession made by former Pope Benedict XVI on Monday, he admitted that he was present at a meeting in 1980 where an abusive priest was discussed. He further claimed that he mistakenly told German investigators he was not there. He has been incriminated over his failure to act over four cases of child sexual abuse during his tenure as the Archbishop of Munich. The confession came in a statement to the Catholic News Agency through his private secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein. He said that Benedict did attend the meeting but the omission "was the result of an oversight in the editing of the statement" and "not done out of bad faith." Also read | In Mexico, second journalist is murdered in less than a week He further said that no decision was made at the 1980 meeting about a new assignment for the priest. There was only a request to provide him with accommodation during the treatment. "He is very sorry for this mistake and asks to be excused," Ganswein said. Benedict planned to explain his error after he finishes examining the nearly 2,000-page report, Ganswein added. "He is carefully reading the statements set down there, which fill him with shame and pain about the suffering inflicted on the victims. A complete review "will take some time due to his age and health." Meanwhile, the Vatican has expressed shame and remorse for child sexual abuse by Catholic clergy. The Vatican has assured that they are taking this document seriously and will make a comment once after the report has been examined. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Pope Benedict XVI confesses about faulty testimony in German abuse case

In Pics | German flood victims receive tiny houses just before Christmas

In a landmark judgement, a court in Germany has ruled that walking from bed to home office is technically commuting and if a person falls while making this journey for the first time, it comes under workplace accident insurance. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the case, the court said the man, who slipped after walking a few metres from bed towards his home office, can claim workplace accident insurance. &nbsp;

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In its decision, the federal social court, which undertakes social security issues, said, the man was working from home and was going to his desk one floor below the bedroom. &nbsp;

The man, who has not been named, slipped while walking on the spiral staircase connecting the rooms and broke his back. &nbsp;

The German federal court ruled, “The plaintiff suffered an accident at work when he fell on the way to his home office in the morning. If the insured activity is carried out in the household of the insured person or at another location, insurance cover is provided to the same extent as when the activity is carried out at the company premises.” &nbsp;

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The court also said that it had found that “the first morning journey from bed to the home office [was] an insured work route”. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, the employer’s insurance had refused to cover the claim while two lower courts had also disagreed on whether the travel was a commute or not. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a landmark judgement, a court in Germany has ruled that walking from bed to home office is technically commuting and if a person falls while making this journey for the first time, it comes under workplace accident insurance.

In a landmark judgement, a court in Germany has ruled that walking from bed to home office is technically commuting and if a person falls while making this journey for the first time, it comes under workplace accident insurance. In the case, the court said the man, who slipped after walking a few metres from bed towards his home office, can claim workplace accident insurance. Also Read: Actor found guilty of staging fake hate crime to raise his celebrity profile In its decision, the federal social court, which undertakes social security issues, said, the man was working from home and was going to his desk one floor below the bedroom. The man, who has not been named, slipped while walking on the spiral staircase connecting the rooms and broke his back. The German federal court ruled, “The plaintiff suffered an accident at work when he fell on the way to his home office in the morning. If the insured activity is carried out in the household of the insured person or at another location, insurance cover is provided to the same extent as when the activity is carried out at the company premises.” Also Read: Father, son duo held over suspicion of starting major wildfire in US state The court also said that it had found that “the first morning journey from bed to the home office [was] an insured work route”. Earlier, the employer’s insurance had refused to cover the claim while two lower courts had also disagreed on whether the travel was a commute or not. (With inputs from agencies)

German Court rules walking from bed to home office is commuting, comes under workplace accident insurance

A dominant era of politics ended in Germany, social democrat Olaf Scholz has taken the oath as the next chancellor of the country. The lawmakers have gathered in the parliament to confirm chancellorship

Olaf Scholz sworn in as German chancellor

Germany's military saluted Angela Merkel, with a hit by the "godmother of punk" Nina Hagen, as they bid farewell to her during the ceremony - 'Grand Tattoo.' The Bundeswehr staff music corps also played a hymn.

Germany's military saluted Angela Merkel, with a hit by the "godmother of punk" Nina Hagen, as they bid farewell to her during the ceremony - 'Grand Tattoo.' The Bundeswehr staff music corps also played a hymn. Wisely chosen, they played a 1960s song with the lyrics, "I can't acquiesce, can't make do, I still want to win." Watch: Chancellor Angela Merkel receives a grand farewell from Germany's military, complete with the marching band playing a hit song by punk icon Nina Hagen. pic.twitter.com/6jsLN5NcIo — DW News (@dwnews) December 3, 2021 × The '60s song "Red roses are to rain for me" reflects Merkel's youthful ambition. Astonishing the Germans, she picked a Nina Hagen soundtrack for her military leaving ceremony. She is known for her regular attendance at Bayreuth opera festival, which is dedicated to the composer Richard Wagner. Also read | In Pics | With punk, torches and hymn, German military bids farewell to Angela Merkel at 'Grand Tattoo' This is why Merkel managed to surprise everybody with her unusual playlist for the military pomp. ﻿Almost all the members of Germany's political elite were invited to the event, except the far-right Alternative for Germany. Merkel has officially bid farewell to sixteen years in office. At the ceremony, she said, her four terms were "eventful and often very challenging years." "They have challenged me politically and humanly and at the same time, they were also fulfilling." She further stressed how democracies live on "solidarity and trust, also from trust in facts." Germany's military saluted the former Chancellor as members of armed forces were seen carrying torches. (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel surprises Germans by her unusual taste in music; picks Nina Hagen soundtrack for ceremony

In Pics | With punk, torches and hymn, German military bids farewell to Angela Merkel at 'Grand Tattoo'

Germany's envoy to India Walter Lindner has called dealing with the Taliban "realpolitik" so that humanitarian support and other issues can be dealt with. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "we don't like this government, and they have given some assurances...You have to talk, which is not an acknowledgement of recognition of the govt".

Dealings with Taliban "realpolitik" says German Envoy Walter Lindner

The&nbsp;German&nbsp;region&nbsp;hardest&nbsp;hit&nbsp;by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a&nbsp;partial&nbsp;lockdown, local media&nbsp;reported on Thursday as&nbsp;regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide.

Saxony, which has&nbsp;Germany's lowest vaccination rate and highest infection rate, is considering measures like closing theatres, concerts and soccer games to the public once more and shutting bars and discos, according to Bild newspaper.

The eastern&nbsp;region, where new daily infections have risen 14-fold in the past month, is a stronghold of the far-right Alternative for&nbsp;Germany (AfD) party, which harbours many vaccine sceptics who have joined anti-lockdown&nbsp;protests.

A Forsa poll published earlier this month found that half of unvaccinated respondents in&nbsp;Germany had voted for the right-wing populist AfD in the recent federal election.

"This coalition is ready to now impose a hard and clear wave breaker," Saxony leader Michael Kretschmer told the national parliament, according to Bild. The specifics would be hammered out this week, he said.

The announcement comes the same week Austria imposed a&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;for the unvaccinated. Kretschmer said he did not believe targeting only the unvaccinated was enough.

German&nbsp;federal and&nbsp;regional leaders will later on Thursday discuss nationwide measure to tackle the pandemic as cases continue to touch new record highs although the rate of increase is slowing down slightly.

Europe's latest coronavirus wave comes at an awkward time in&nbsp;Germany with conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel acting in a caretaker capacity while three other parties negotiate to form a new government after an inconclusive September election.

Those three parties shepherded a law authorising a package of measures to tackle the pandemic through the Bundestag (lower house of parliament) earlier on Thursday. On Friday, the law, which is designed to come into effect as emergency powers expire, goes to the Bundesrat (upper house).

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The law will tighten some measures currently in place, forcing people to show proof of vaccination or recovery or a negative&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;test on public transport and at work, in addition to wearing face masks.

It will provide states also with a toolbox of other measures depending on the severity of their outbreak, with infection rates currently much higher in eastern and southern&nbsp;Germany.

But some, especially among Merkel's conservatives who are likely heading into the opposition after 16 years in power, feel it does not go far enough.

They would prefer to see the state of emergency, which allows the government to impose school closures and blanket&nbsp;lockdowns without consulting the parliament, to be extended. Merkel described&nbsp;Germany's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;situation as dramaticon Wednesday.

Separately,&nbsp;Germany's vaccine advisory committee on Thursday recommended&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18.

Vaccinations have picked up lately in&nbsp;Germany, which has a history of vaccine resistance, although largely due to uptake of booster shots as more indoor gatherings due to colder weather raises the risk of spreading the virus.

The German region hardest hit by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a partial lockdown, local media reported on Thursday as regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide.

The German region hardest hit by the country's fourth wave of coronavirus is considering a partial lockdown, local media reported on Thursday as regional and federal leaders discussed tighter rules nationwide. Saxony, which has Germany's lowest vaccination rate and highest infection rate, is considering measures like closing theatres, concerts and soccer games to the public once more and shutting bars and discos, according to Bild newspaper. The eastern region, where new daily infections have risen 14-fold in the past month, is a stronghold of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which harbours many vaccine sceptics who have joined anti-lockdown protests. A Forsa poll published earlier this month found that half of unvaccinated respondents in Germany had voted for the right-wing populist AfD in the recent federal election. "This coalition is ready to now impose a hard and clear wave breaker," Saxony leader Michael Kretschmer told the national parliament, according to Bild. The specifics would be hammered out this week, he said. The announcement comes the same week Austria imposed a lockdown for the unvaccinated. Kretschmer said he did not believe targeting only the unvaccinated was enough. German federal and regional leaders will later on Thursday discuss nationwide measure to tackle the pandemic as cases continue to touch new record highs although the rate of increase is slowing down slightly. Europe's latest coronavirus wave comes at an awkward time in Germany with conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel acting in a caretaker capacity while three other parties negotiate to form a new government after an inconclusive September election. Those three parties shepherded a law authorising a package of measures to tackle the pandemic through the Bundestag (lower house of parliament) earlier on Thursday. On Friday, the law, which is designed to come into effect as emergency powers expire, goes to the Bundesrat (upper house). Also read | 'Catastrophic' flooding triggers state of emergency in Canada The law will tighten some measures currently in place, forcing people to show proof of vaccination or recovery or a negative COVID-19 test on public transport and at work, in addition to wearing face masks. It will provide states also with a toolbox of other measures depending on the severity of their outbreak, with infection rates currently much higher in eastern and southern Germany. But some, especially among Merkel's conservatives who are likely heading into the opposition after 16 years in power, feel it does not go far enough. They would prefer to see the state of emergency, which allows the government to impose school closures and blanket lockdowns without consulting the parliament, to be extended. Merkel described Germany's COVID-19 situation as dramaticon Wednesday. Separately, Germany's vaccine advisory committee on Thursday recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18. Vaccinations have picked up lately in Germany, which has a history of vaccine resistance, although largely due to uptake of booster shots as more indoor gatherings due to colder weather raises the risk of spreading the virus.

German region hardest hit by COVID surge plans partial lockdown: Report

Germany's best-selling tabloid Bild scathingly criticised European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde on Saturday, accusing her of destroying the earnings and savings of ordinary people by tolerating a rise in inflation.

The article, echoing a Bild attack on Lagarde's predecessor Mario Draghi in 2019, may signal fresh hostility towards the ECB on the part of the German public, which has for a decade been sceptical of the bank`s ultra-easy policy.

Two days ago the bank left rates policy unchanged despite consumer price growth hitting a 13-year high. 
The newspaper called Lagarde "Madam Inflation,", accusing her of being a high-earner who liked wearing luxury fashion and saying she didn't seem to care about ordinary people's difficulties. "Christine Lagarde is melting pensions, wages and savings," it said.

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Asked about the article by Reuters, an ECB spokesperson noted that in her Thursday news conference Lagarde had acknowledged inflation is "clearly of concern" to citizens, and said policymakers did a "lot of soul-searching" before holding off on tightening policy.

Bild's attack comes a week after German central bank chief Jens Weidmann, an outspoken critic of ECB policy, quit his job, arguing that 10 years in the role is enough while also warning over inflation risks.

Inflation in the euro zone hit 4.1 per cent&nbsp;this month, equalling its all-time-high, while German inflation is even higher, likely approaching 5 per cent&nbsp;by year end.

Germany's best-selling tabloid Bild scathingly criticised European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde on Saturday, accusing her of destroying the earnings and savings of ordinary people by tolerating a rise in inflation.

Germany's best-selling tabloid Bild scathingly criticised European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde on Saturday, accusing her of destroying the earnings and savings of ordinary people by tolerating a rise in inflation. The article, echoing a Bild attack on Lagarde's predecessor Mario Draghi in 2019, may signal fresh hostility towards the ECB on the part of the German public, which has for a decade been sceptical of the bank`s ultra-easy policy. Two days ago the bank left rates policy unchanged despite consumer price growth hitting a 13-year high. The newspaper called Lagarde "Madam Inflation,", accusing her of being a high-earner who liked wearing luxury fashion and saying she didn't seem to care about ordinary people's difficulties. "Christine Lagarde is melting pensions, wages and savings," it said. Also Read | German Cup: Borussia Moenchengladbach hammer Bayern Munich 5-0 to enter third round Asked about the article by Reuters, an ECB spokesperson noted that in her Thursday news conference Lagarde had acknowledged inflation is "clearly of concern" to citizens, and said policymakers did a "lot of soul-searching" before holding off on tightening policy. Bild's attack comes a week after German central bank chief Jens Weidmann, an outspoken critic of ECB policy, quit his job, arguing that 10 years in the role is enough while also warning over inflation risks. Inflation in the euro zone hit 4.1 per cent this month, equalling its all-time-high, while German inflation is even higher, likely approaching 5 per cent by year end.

German tabloid attacks ECB chief Lagarde as 'Madam Inflation'

Facial hair aficionados face-off at German Moustache and Beard Championships

A Munich court on Monday sentenced a German woman who joined the Islamic State group to 10 years in prison over the war crime of letting a five-year-old Yazidi "slave" girl die of thirst in the sun.

Presiding judge Reinhold Baier of the superior regional court in the southern German city handed down the verdict to Jennifer Wenisch, 30, in one of the first convictions anywhere in the world related to the IS jihadists' persecution of the Yazidi community.

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Wenisch was found guilty of "two crimes against humanity in the form of enslavement", aiding and abetting the girl's killing by failing to offer help as well as membership of a terrorist organisation.

She and her IS husband "purchased" a Yazidi woman and child as household "slaves", whom they held captive while living in then IS-occupied Mosul, Iraq, in 2015, the court found.

"After the girl fell ill and wet her mattress, the husband of the accused chained her up outside as punishment and let the child die an agonising death of thirst in the scorching heat," prosecutors told the trial.

"The accused allowed her husband to do so and did nothing to save the girl."

The trial lasted two and a half years due to delays linked to the pandemic and other factors.

Wenisch's husband, Taha al-Jumailly, is also facing trial in separate proceedings in Frankfurt, where a verdict is due in late November.

Morality police&nbsp;

Federal prosecutors had called for a life sentence for Wenisch for her role in the Yazidi girl's suffering and death.

Identified only by her first name Nora, the child's mother has repeatedly testified in both Munich and Frankfurt about the torment visited on her child.

The defence had claimed the mother's testimony was untrustworthy and said there was no proof that the girl, who was taken to hospital after the incident, actually died.

Wenisch's lawyers had called for her to receive a two-year suspended sentence for supporting a terrorist organisation.

When asked during the trial about her failure to save the girl, Wenisch said she was "afraid" that her husband would "push her or lock her up".

At the close of the trial, according to the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung, she claimed she was being "made an example of for everything that has happened under IS".

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According to other media reports, Wenisch converted to Islam in 2013 and travelled the following year via Turkey and Syria to Iraq where she joined IS.

Recruited in mid-2015 to the group's self-styled hisbah morality police, she patrolled city parks in IS-occupied Fallujah and Mosul.

Universal jurisdiction&nbsp;

Armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, a pistol and an explosives vest, her task was to ensure strict IS rules on dress code, public behaviour and bans on alcohol and tobacco.

In January 2016, she visited the German embassy in Ankara to apply for new identity papers. When she left the mission, she was arrested and extradited days later to Germany.

Wenisch's trial, which began in April 2019, is one of the first examples of court proceedings over the Islamic State group's brutal treatment of Yazidis.

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A Kurdish-speaking group hailing from northern Iraq, the Yazidis were specifically targeted and oppressed by the jihadists beginning in 2015.

London-based human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, who has been involved in a campaign for IS crimes against the group to be recognised as a "genocide", was part of the team representing the Yazidi girl's mother.

Germany has charged several German and foreign nationals with war crimes and crimes against humanity carried out abroad, using the legal principle of universal jurisdiction which allows crimes to be prosecuted even if they were committed in a foreign country.

A handful of female suspects are among those who have appeared in the dock.

In November 2020, a German woman named as Nurten J. was charged with crimes against humanity allegedly committed while she was living in Syria as a member of Islamic State.

In October 2020, another German court sentenced the German-Tunisian wife of a rapper-turned-jihadist to three-and-a-half years in prison for having taken part in the enslavement of a Yazidi girl in Syria.

A Munich court on Monday sentenced a German woman who joined the Islamic State group to 10 years in prison over the war crime of letting a five-year-old Yazidi "slave" girl die of thirst in the sun.

A Munich court on Monday sentenced a German woman who joined the Islamic State group to 10 years in prison over the war crime of letting a five-year-old Yazidi "slave" girl die of thirst in the sun. Presiding judge Reinhold Baier of the superior regional court in the southern German city handed down the verdict to Jennifer Wenisch, 30, in one of the first convictions anywhere in the world related to the IS jihadists' persecution of the Yazidi community. Also Read | German state allows businesses to turn back unvaccinated people Wenisch was found guilty of "two crimes against humanity in the form of enslavement", aiding and abetting the girl's killing by failing to offer help as well as membership of a terrorist organisation. She and her IS husband "purchased" a Yazidi woman and child as household "slaves", whom they held captive while living in then IS-occupied Mosul, Iraq, in 2015, the court found. "After the girl fell ill and wet her mattress, the husband of the accused chained her up outside as punishment and let the child die an agonising death of thirst in the scorching heat," prosecutors told the trial. "The accused allowed her husband to do so and did nothing to save the girl." The trial lasted two and a half years due to delays linked to the pandemic and other factors. Wenisch's husband, Taha al-Jumailly, is also facing trial in separate proceedings in Frankfurt, where a verdict is due in late November. Morality police Federal prosecutors had called for a life sentence for Wenisch for her role in the Yazidi girl's suffering and death. Identified only by her first name Nora, the child's mother has repeatedly testified in both Munich and Frankfurt about the torment visited on her child. The defence had claimed the mother's testimony was untrustworthy and said there was no proof that the girl, who was taken to hospital after the incident, actually died. Wenisch's lawyers had called for her to receive a two-year suspended sentence for supporting a terrorist organisation. When asked during the trial about her failure to save the girl, Wenisch said she was "afraid" that her husband would "push her or lock her up". At the close of the trial, according to the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung, she claimed she was being "made an example of for everything that has happened under IS". Also Read | German parties meet as coalition haggling begins According to other media reports, Wenisch converted to Islam in 2013 and travelled the following year via Turkey and Syria to Iraq where she joined IS. Recruited in mid-2015 to the group's self-styled hisbah morality police, she patrolled city parks in IS-occupied Fallujah and Mosul. Universal jurisdiction Armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, a pistol and an explosives vest, her task was to ensure strict IS rules on dress code, public behaviour and bans on alcohol and tobacco. In January 2016, she visited the German embassy in Ankara to apply for new identity papers. When she left the mission, she was arrested and extradited days later to Germany. Wenisch's trial, which began in April 2019, is one of the first examples of court proceedings over the Islamic State group's brutal treatment of Yazidis. Also Read | Islamic State claims responsibility for causing Kabul power outage A Kurdish-speaking group hailing from northern Iraq, the Yazidis were specifically targeted and oppressed by the jihadists beginning in 2015. London-based human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, who has been involved in a campaign for IS crimes against the group to be recognised as a "genocide", was part of the team representing the Yazidi girl's mother. Germany has charged several German and foreign nationals with war crimes and crimes against humanity carried out abroad, using the legal principle of universal jurisdiction which allows crimes to be prosecuted even if they were committed in a foreign country. A handful of female suspects are among those who have appeared in the dock. In November 2020, a German woman named as Nurten J. was charged with crimes against humanity allegedly committed while she was living in Syria as a member of Islamic State. In October 2020, another German court sentenced the German-Tunisian wife of a rapper-turned-jihadist to three-and-a-half years in prison for having taken part in the enslavement of a Yazidi girl in Syria.

German IS bride sentenced to 10 years over Yazidi girl murder

Germany recorded the highest incidence of coronavirus infections since mid-May on Saturday, reaching the threshold of 100 cases per 100,000 in the past seven days that used to be the yardstick for imposing a strict lockdown.

However, Health Minister Jens Spahn noted that Germany could cope much better now due to vaccination, although he said restrictions like mask wearing and limits on indoor activity for unvaccinated people would stay until next spring.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/180000-healthcare-workers-may-have-died-due-to-covid-19-who-422734">180,000 healthcare workers may have died due to COVID-19: WHO</a>

The seven-day incidence rate of cases - which until August was used to decide whether to impose more stringent COVID-19 curbs - rose to 100 on Saturday from 95 on Friday, the Robert Koch Institute responsible for disease control said.

A total of 15,145 new infections were reported on Saturday, 4,196 more than the same time last Saturday, it added, and another 86 people died, to bring the total to 95,077.

The rise comes as the leaders of Germany's 16 states are discussing how to proceed after a nationwide state of emergency is set to lapse on November&nbsp;25, meaning restrictions will automatically expire then unless extended by parliamentary vote.

Spahn said on Saturday that it should be possible to lift the state of emergency while still upholding rules requiring mask-wearing and proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result to enter most indoor public spaces.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-state-allows-businesses-to-turn-back-unvaccinated-people-421260">German state allows businesses to turn back unvaccinated people</a>

"We can obviously deal with higher incidences, higher numbers of infections better, much better without overburdening the health system, because so many are already vaccinated," Spahn said in an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio. 
"This path from a state of emergency to a state of special caution to a state of normality, probably in the spring, if there is no new variant, is, I think, also one that gives confidence."

However, he noted that parts of Germany with lower rates of vaccination - such as Saxony and Thueringen - were already seeing pressure on hospitals from rising infections.

Around 66 per cent&nbsp;of German residents are fully vaccinated, compared with 63.3 pr cent&nbsp;of people across the European Union.

Germany recorded the highest incidence of coronavirus infections since mid-May on Saturday, reaching the threshold of 100 cases per 100,000 in the past seven days that used to be the yardstick for imposing a strict lockdown.

Germany recorded the highest incidence of coronavirus infections since mid-May on Saturday, reaching the threshold of 100 cases per 100,000 in the past seven days that used to be the yardstick for imposing a strict lockdown. However, Health Minister Jens Spahn noted that Germany could cope much better now due to vaccination, although he said restrictions like mask wearing and limits on indoor activity for unvaccinated people would stay until next spring. Also Read | 180,000 healthcare workers may have died due to COVID-19: WHO The seven-day incidence rate of cases - which until August was used to decide whether to impose more stringent COVID-19 curbs - rose to 100 on Saturday from 95 on Friday, the Robert Koch Institute responsible for disease control said. A total of 15,145 new infections were reported on Saturday, 4,196 more than the same time last Saturday, it added, and another 86 people died, to bring the total to 95,077. The rise comes as the leaders of Germany's 16 states are discussing how to proceed after a nationwide state of emergency is set to lapse on November 25, meaning restrictions will automatically expire then unless extended by parliamentary vote. Spahn said on Saturday that it should be possible to lift the state of emergency while still upholding rules requiring mask-wearing and proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result to enter most indoor public spaces. Also Read | German state allows businesses to turn back unvaccinated people "We can obviously deal with higher incidences, higher numbers of infections better, much better without overburdening the health system, because so many are already vaccinated," Spahn said in an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio. "This path from a state of emergency to a state of special caution to a state of normality, probably in the spring, if there is no new variant, is, I think, also one that gives confidence." However, he noted that parts of Germany with lower rates of vaccination - such as Saxony and Thueringen - were already seeing pressure on hospitals from rising infections. Around 66 per cent of German residents are fully vaccinated, compared with 63.3 pr cent of people across the European Union.

German COVID-19 infections at highest since mid-May

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