Everything you need to know about the right to your name and identity without racist mockery or distortion in Germany
A person’s name is a core element of their identity and dignity. In a diverse society like Germany, a name carries strong symbolic meaning: it reflects cultural background, family roots and often a sense of personal pride. Unfortunately, many people with migrant backgrounds or “unfamiliar” names face discriminatory behaviour such as mockery or racist distortion.
Legally
Article 1 of the German Constitution (Grundgesetz) protects human dignity.
Your name is registered on your birth certificate, ID card and all official documents and is part of your protected personal rights.
Socially
A name symbolises belonging, culture and identity.
Respecting a person’s name is a sign of respecting the person themselves.
Verbal mockery: Distorting names in a mocking way or using offensive nicknames.
Deliberate mispronunciation or alteration: Ignoring the correct pronunciation on purpose or shortening/changing the name in a way that devalues it.
Institutional discrimination: In recruitment processes, where applicants are rejected because of “foreign-sounding” names.
Bullying at school: Pupils with “non-German” names are teased or excluded.
General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)
The AGG prohibits discrimination on the grounds of ethnic origin or “race”; this includes hidden forms of discrimination through names.
German Civil Code (BGB)
The BGB protects personal rights, including the right to one’s own name.
Misuse, distortion or degrading use of a name can amount to an infringement of personal rights.
German Criminal Code (StGB)
Name-related insults can constitute the criminal offence of “insult” (Beleidigung) under § 185 StGB.
This may be punishable by a fine or, in serious cases, imprisonment.
1. Talk to the responsible persons
At school: Speak to the school management, your class teacher or school counsellor.
At work: Contact the HR department or the works council (Betriebsrat).
2. File a formal complaint
If the situation is repeated or cannot be resolved internally, you can file a complaint with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency (Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes).
3. Take legal action
You can file a criminal complaint for insult or bring a civil claim for non-material damages (Schmerzensgeld) based on a violation of your personal rights.
Organisations such as Each One Teach One (EOTO) support people of African descent in cases of discrimination.
Initiatives like “Respect! Kein Platz für Rassismus” (No place for racism) raise awareness at schools, workplaces and in public life and promote a culture of respect and diversity.
Calmly and confidently correct the pronunciation of your name whenever it is said incorrectly.
Do not hesitate to reject nicknames or “cute versions” of your name that you dislike.
Take part in workshops or discussion groups on diversity and anti-discrimination where possible to strengthen your awareness and your support network.
Your name is your identity and your voice in this world. No one has the right to twist it or make fun of it – regardless of how “unusual” it sounds or where it comes from. If you experience abusive behaviour, remember: the law is on your side, and your dignity is clearly protected in the German legal system.
Key German terms
Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG): General Equal Treatment Act
Beleidigung (§ 185 StGB): Criminal offence of insult
Betriebsrat: Works council / employee representation
Schmerzensgeld: Compensation for non-material damage (e.g. emotional harm)
Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes: Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and various sources. However, errors or incomplete details may still occur. Therefore, the contents of this article should be regarded as an initial point of reference only and do not replace official information. Please always contact the competent authorities for binding and up-to-date advice.
