THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
Several important legal and regulatory changes will take effect in Germany and across the European Union in June. These changes affect everything from taxes and consumer electronics to digital accessibility and maternity rights after pregnancy loss. Here’s an overview of the most important changes
Tax Deadlines: What You Need to Know
• 2 June 2025: Deadline to file your 2023 tax return if you use a tax advisor or a wage tax assistance association.
• 31 July 2025: Deadline for those filing independently for the 2024 tax year, for example, using tax software.
Tip: Submit early to avoid penalties and ensure a faster refund.
New Maternity Protection After Miscarriage
Starting 1 June 2025, women who experience a miscarriage from the 13th week of pregnancy onward are entitled to maternity leave for physical and emotional recovery. The length of leave increases with the stage of pregnancy:
• 13–16 weeks: 2 weeks’ leave
• 17–19 weeks: 6 weeks’ leave
• 20–23 weeks: 8 weeks’ leave
This new protection brings Germany closer in line with other EU countries offering compassionate support after pregnancy loss.
Digital Accessibility Law Comes into Force
From 28 June 2025, the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) mandates that many digital services and products must be fully accessible to all, including people with disabilities, older people and less tech-savvy users.
Affected services and products:
• Websites and apps (e.g. online shops, banks)
• Digital devices like smartphones, e-book readers, smart TVs
Key features of digital accessibility:
• Text alternatives for images
• High-contrast visuals
• Keyboard navigation
• Clear structure and intuitive use
24-Hour Electricity Provider Switching
Thanks to a new EU directive, from 6 June 2025 electricity customers in Germany can change their providers within one working day.
What to keep in mind:
• Termination notice periods still apply.
• Backdated switches (e.g., after moving) are no longer allowed.
• Those who don’t sign a new contract will be placed in the more expensive basic supply.
This reform aims to boost competition and simplify access to cheaper or greener energy options.
Eco-Friendly Smartphones: New EU Standards
From 20 June 2025, smartphones and tablets sold in the EU must meet new environmental and consumer-friendly standards:
• Battery durability: After 800 charging cycles, batteries must retain at least 80% capacity
• Repairability: Spare parts must be available for up to 7 years after the product is discontinued
• Security updates: Required for a minimum of 5 years
• EPREL label: All devices must display information on energy efficiency and environmental performance
Goal of the new regulation is to reduce electronic waste and promote sustainable consumption.
Germany & Switzerland Digitize Traffic Law Enforcement
Germany and Switzerland have long cooperated in tracking traffic violations across borders. A new digital system, introduced in June, now allows enforcement requests to be transmitted electronically—making the process faster and more efficient.
This change strengthens cross-border law enforcement and reflects broader efforts to modernize administrative cooperation in the EU and neighboring countries.
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