Political tensions are mounting in Germany after the Green Party in North Rhine-Westphalia called for an end to the use of Palantir software by law enforcement agencies. The party is urging the state government to cancel existing contracts with the US tech firm, citing concerns over mass surveillance, human rights and digital sovereignty.
The dispute threatens to strain the governing coalition, as the CDU-led state administration continues to rely on Palantir technology for policing and crime prevention.
Civil liberties groups and data protection officials have repeatedly warned about the risks posed by the company's extensive data integration and surveillance capabilities.
Palantir has long faced criticism over its work with the Israeli military and US immigration authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), fuelling concerns about the company's role in state surveillance.
The debate comes amid a broader European push for technological sovereignty and reduced dependence on US software providers. In a recent setback for the company, France's domestic intelligence agency opted for French rival ChapsVision over Palantir, reflecting growing demand for local alternatives.
