Stories from Cologne · Germany

The private association DUMMI is planning Germany's first museum for immigrant history in the Kalk district of Cologne. The project is currently at risk due to 33 million euros in settlement costs.

The German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) plans to use artificial intelligence to assist in solving crimes. The head of the fuel price watchdog, Zorn, is calling for increased pressure on petroleum companies following indications of potential violations. The watchdog is demanding action from the Federal Cartel Office to address suspected breaches of the 12:00 rule intended to provide consumer transparency. The law includes specific penalties for such violations. The Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs is reviewing jurisdiction regarding potential fuel price rule violations at gas stations. In Rhineland-Palatinate, officials are working to clarify how to penalize such violations. An evaluation by SWR found that some gas stations continued to increase prices multiple times per day despite a new 12:00 rule.

The Cologne fire department evacuated the Cologne Cathedral and its treasury early this afternoon following reports of a burning smell. 25 vehicles and 70 emergency responders were deployed to the site. Fire officials stated that the cause of the odor could not be identified.

Landlords in Germany must soon prove the cost of furniture in fully furnished apartments does not exceed 10% of the base rent. New regulations will also require tenants to provide a valid reason for short-term rentals. The Justice Minister is also targeting index-linked rents, proposing that rent increases cannot rise indefinitely if inflation exceeds 3%. The German cabinet has approved a draft law aimed at regulating furnished apartment rentals and index leases. Federal Justice Minister Stephanie Hubeich introduced the proposal to limit the discretion landlords currently have in charging high rents for furnished units. Under the new rules, owners must provide proof of the specific additional costs charged for furniture. The legislation must still pass through the Bundestag.

Starting January 1, public spaces in certain German cities will no longer be permitted to host old clothing containers. Authorities cited increasing littering issues, noting over 800 complaints were filed last year.

Sven Lehmann, chairman of the Bundestag Culture Committee, is demanding a solution for the planned Migration Museum in Cologne. The museum faces potential cancellation due to an additional 33 million euros in costs. The Kölner Stadtanzeiger reported on the funding risks.

Aufbau Verlag has released a new volume of letters written by Brigitte Reimann during the late 1940s and 1950s. Reimann died of bone cancer in 1973 at the age of 39. One letter dates to 1932, addressed to Joseph Stalin, in which she requested his endorsement.

Modern laboratory spaces for startups have opened in the Bocklemünd district of Cologne. The 400-square-meter facility provides fully equipped, shared workspaces featuring modern equipment. These spaces are specifically designed for new business ventures in the medical and biological fields. The initiative aims to strengthen Cologne as a startup location and reduce barriers to entry regarding technical equipment and laboratory availability.

Five men are currently awaiting trial in Germany for their alleged or suspected involvement in the September 11 attacks. Authorities noted that three others may be deported to other countries under specific conditions.

Financial authorities are monitoring neobanks and fintech startups due to deficits in money laundering prevention and risk management. Providers C24 and N26 are specifically noted as being under observation.