Riding Without a Ticket in Germany: Bremen as a Model

It may soon be possible in Germany to ride without a ticket without fearing criminal consequences. In Bremen, no one has been prosecuted for riding without a ticket for almost a year. The city's justice senator explains the effects of this decision on society and public transportation. She notes that decriminalizing fare evasion not only alleviates pressure on the judiciary but also leads to a better understanding of the social circumstances of those affected. These changes could contribute to increased acceptance of public transport in the long term and lower the barriers for passengers who may not be able to afford a ticket for financial reasons. However, these changes also raise questions about the financing of public transport and how to ensure that all passengers are treated fairly. Bremen could thus serve as a model city for other regions of Germany considering similar steps.