A proposed new law, requiring mothers in paternity cases to release the names of men they have slept with, has sparked controversy in Germany this week.
Germany’s Justice Minister, Heiko Maas, shared details of a proposal aiming to ‘offer more legal protection to ‘false’ fathers’ seeking compensation.
The proposal, if passed, would come into effect in paternity cases where the father is seeking compensation after financially supporting a child which he wrongly believed to be his.
According to the provision, the mother will have to disclose the identity of any man ‘who has lain with her during the conception period’. Only ‘serious reasons’ will negate the order.
While the provision was drafted to make it easier for men to claim back expense paid out as ‘maintenance’, they will only be allowed to claim back for two years’ worth. Currently, there is no fixed time period for which they can reclaim.
The provision is currently awaiting approval from parliament.
Germany strengthening rights of men falsely named as fathers? https://t.co/6ElRoYwa70
— Tom Martin (@Sexismbusters) August 29, 2016
Misogynistic new law drafted in Germany to force mothers to name sexual partners in paternity cases - https://t.co/sMI8dcN4JP
— Stefanie Petschick (@mutabilities) August 29, 2016
The drafting has been heavily criticised on social media, with some even branding it 'misogynistic'.
What are your thoughts on this latest provision? Would you support a similar law being enacted here?
