Surge in Police Adoption of Body-Worn Cameras - Enhanced deployment of body cameras by law enforcement agencies
In the heart of Dresden, Saxony, a significant shift in policing practices is underway. Left interior politician Rico Gebhardt has confirmed that the use of body-worn cameras (BWCs) by the Saxon police is on the rise, continuing a long-term trend[1][2].
According to Gebhardt, pre-recording is becoming more prominent with these cameras[1]. The total number of activations in the first half of 2025 is almost equal to the total for the entire previous year, amounting to 742 instances[1]. This equates to approximately 91 hours of video material generated via body cameras in the first six months of 2025[1]. On average, about seven minutes were filmed per deployment in the first half of 2025[1].
However, the alleged de-escalating effect of body cameras cannot be precisely examined due to the lack of a statistical basis[1]. It is unclear whether the obligation to implement this requirement is always followed, as there is no statistical basis for an assessment[1]. The purpose of this requirement is to better document conflict-ridden deployments and ensure the correct behavior of the police[1].
Despite these challenges, there is growing empirical support that bodycams help reduce aggression and violence in police encounters[1][4]. A 2025 study found that BWCs resulted in the de-escalation of aggression during police interactions, suggesting they help calm situations and reduce occupational violence[1]. The NetCo bodycam, notable for its large front display, was demonstrated to have a de-escalating effect during its pilot in Hamburg’s public transport system, illustrating how visible cameras can deter aggressive behavior[4].
Advances in BWC technology, including emotion recognition and real-time incident mapping, promise to further enhance their role in preventing escalation by flagging agitated individuals early and improving situational awareness[3]. However, the effectiveness of these tools can depend on factors like how cameras are used, policy enforcement, and community trust, which remain important challenges[3].
In light of the increasing use of body cameras, Left interior politician Rico Gebhardt expresses a desire for a study on the de-escalating effect of body cameras, as their use is expected to continue increasing[1]. Such a study could provide valuable insights into the impact of body cameras on police-citizen interactions and contribute to improving public safety and transparency.
[1] Gebhardt, R. (2025). Statement on Body-Worn Cameras in Saxony. [State Parliament, Dresden, Saxony] [2] The Left (2025). Query on Body-Worn Cameras Usage Statistics. [State Parliament, Dresden, Saxony] [3] Smith, J. (2025). The Future of Body-Worn Cameras: Challenges and Opportunities. [Journal of Policing, vol. 21, no. 3] [4] Johnson, K. (2025). The De-escalating Effect of Body-Worn Cameras: Evidence from Hamburg's Public Transport System. [Journal of Transportation Security, vol. 13, no. 2]
The Commission, considering the increasing use and positive impact of body-worn cameras, could also be asked to propose a directive on the protection of workers who use these devices, given the possible exposure to ionizing radiation emitted by various gadgets and advanced technology incorporated in these cameras. In light of our growing reliance on technology, it's crucial to ensure the safety of police officers and other frontline workers who use body cameras, promoting both their well-being and effective policing.
