A Tool for Democratic Transparency

Interactive Surveillance Barometer Goes Online

May 22, 2026

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law presented the new dynamic online platform of the “Surveillance Barometer Germany” at the digital and society conference re:publica 26. The surveillance barometer is a long-term project of the Institute aimed at providing transparency regarding the type and frequency of covert surveillance measures carried out by security agencies. For the first time, the collected data has now been visually processed and can be filtered by federal state, area of life, and statutory powers. The researchers are certain that transparency regarding the nature and extent of state surveillance is an indispensable element of democratic control.

six pressure vessels side by side (metering devices/meters are visible). — The Max Planck Institute has assessed the extent to which the state may digitally surveil its citizens. An interactive map now allows users to conduct their own research.

© devilmaya / Alamy Stock Photo

The Max Planck Institute has assessed the extent to which the state may digitally surveil its citizens. An interactive map now allows users to conduct their own research.

© devilmaya / Alamy Stock Photo

For more information, see the German news release.

Link to the Online Platform: https://surveillance-barometer.csl.mpg.de