Which ECHR article is used in Germany to protect privacy against searches?

• A. Article 6
• B. Article 8
• C. Article 3
• D. Article 14

Answer: (B)

Privacy against searches is protected by Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This article guarantees the right to respect for private and family life, home, and correspondence. When a state conducts a search or surveillance, any interference must be lawful, pursue a legitimate aim, and be necessary and proportionate in a democratic society. In Germany, this Article 8 protection is the key standard used to assess police searches and related intrusions on individuals’ privacy. The other articles protect different rights—such as a fair trial, prohibition of torture, or non-discrimination—and do not specifically address privacy in the context of searches.