05.09.2025 01:36
Sven Liebich, a far-right individual who received an 18-month prison sentence in Germany, applied to be transferred to a women's prison, stating that he has changed his gender once his sentence was finalized. According to German law, a mere declaration is sufficient, so the fact that Liebich, whose physical gender cannot be questioned, will be housed with female inmates has ignited a new debate in the country.
The judiciary and enforcement system in Germany has come to the center of discussions due to a rather unusual incident. Sven Liebich, a 55-year-old far-right individual who was sentenced to 18 months in prison for inciting hatred and hostility, defamation, insult, and provocation, took a notable step after his sentence was finalized.
WHEN HIS SENTENCE WAS FINALIZED, HE SAID "I AM NOW A WOMAN"
In 2023, after the conviction was finalized, Liebich declared that he was "a woman" and began using the name "Marla Svenja Liebich" with his new identity. According to German laws, a person's declaration is sufficient for gender change. Therefore, no medical tests or physical examinations can be conducted, as bodily integrity is protected as a constitutional right.
HE WILL ENTER A WOMEN'S PRISON
Starting to wear women's clothing with his new identity, Liebich applied to be placed in Chemnitz Women's Prison to serve his sentence. The prison administration allocated a place for him since his gender appeared as "female" in official records. However, Liebich has not surrendered to date. Consequently, the prosecution issued an additional arrest warrant.
EVEN THE INTERIOR MINISTER PROTESTED
Svenja Liebich benefited from the new law that came into effect in November 2024, which facilitates gender and name changes. However, the incident also brought criticisms that this legal regulation was being abused. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt argued that this situation indicated a legal loophole and called for a review of the law. On the other hand, the Social Democratic Party (SPD), which implemented the law, did not respond positively to this request.