German Pandemic Leaders Face Formal Parliamentary Inquiry

A special committee in Germany's parliament has officially begun an investigation into the country's handling of the COVID-19 crisis. The inquiry will examine policy decisions made by key leaders during the pandemic. Its goal is to understand how the government chose its containment strategies. Lawmakers will question former Chancellor Angela Merkel and former Health Minister Jens Spahn. Other senior officials from the federal and state levels may also be called. The investigation focuses on the legal basis for restrictions. These included lockdowns, school closures, and mandated vaccinations for certain workers. The inquiry has no power to bring criminal charges. However, its findings could influence future laws for managing national emergencies. The process is expected to continue for many months.