Dismantling the Coffin Mandate: Rhineland-Palatinate's New Burial Law Under Fire in State Parliament Debate
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The burial law under consideration by the traffic light government of Rhineland-Palatinate falls short in crucial aspects, according to CDU opposition forces. Piety and dignity should trump individualism and modernity, CDU MP Christoph Gensch argued, demanding an expert hearing. The proposed modifications are suspected to generate a series of subsequent issues, such as disturbing the peace of the departed.
No More Coffin Obligation - Shroud Burials and River Burials in the Cards
The coffin mandate in the state is poised for elimination, allowing shroud burials for all. Burials along larger rivers will also be allowed. Rhineland-Palatinate intends to permit the creation of synthetic diamonds from the deceased's ashes, a practice already legal in neighboring countries like Switzerland and Austria.
A Matter of Personal Decision
Health Minister Clemens Hoch (SPD) and spokespersons from the three traffic light parties argued for the law during the initial reading in the state parliament, which was then referred to the health committee. While cemeteries will remain the optimal location for social mourning, Hoch stated, the individual's wishes will be respected, and self-determined decisions will be facilitated.
CDU Support on Select Issues
CDU MP Gensch lauded the new regulations for star children's burial procedures. In the future, infants who die before the 24th week of gestation or are born weighing less than 500 grams will be eligible for burial—even with a parent. The CDU also backs the planned eternal graves for soldiers who have perished in military operations, with the state assuming the costs from the federal government after a specified period.
Respect for the Deceased's Final Wishes
Green MP Josef Winkler emphasized that the wishes of the deceased should take precedence over those of the bereaved.
The FDP faction leader, Steven Wink, spoke of a "milestone." The law will cater to individuality, personal preferences, different cultures, and religions—within clear boundaries.
Free Voters Express Concerns about Cemetery's Meaning
Patrick Kunz from the Free Voters group lamented an "inadequate solution" and warned of a "deep erosion of the cemetery's significance as a sanctuary, meeting place, and place of respect" for municipalities. Clearing crews currently discreetly place urns in front of cemeteries during house clearings.
The AfD faction is against excessive state intervention and advocates for a reform of the law, according to MP Peter Stuhlfauth: "In death, all people are equal."
Dialogue with Churches and Social Groups to Continue
SPD faction leader Sabine Bätzing-Lichtenthäler commented: "We are making way for new burial wishes, but we demand clarity and set limits." To appease the churches, clear guidelines on social burials have also been included. The discussion with churches and social groups must persist. "When it comes to death, mourning, and dignity, we need to handle each other with care," said the SPD politician.
- Funeral Law Reform
- CDU
- State Parliament
- SPD
- Rhineland-Palatinate
- Diamonds
- Mainz
- Germany
- Switzerland
- Austria
Insights:
The proposed modifications intend to dismantle the coffin mandate, offering the option of shroud burials for everyone. Larger river burials and synthetic diamond creation using cremated remains, a practice already permissible in neighboring countries, are also on the table. Self-determination of burial choices will become the norm, with a focus on respecting the deceased's final wishes.
These modifications may lessen the environmental and economic impact while inspiring shifts in societal values toward more personalized and environmentally mindful practices. However, acceptance from conservative elements might be necessary for successful implementation.
- The discussion in the Rhineland-Palatinate state parliament about the new funeral law involves various aspects, including the CDU's demand for an expert hearing on the proposed modifications.
- In the proposed changes, there is a focus on self-determination of burial choices, with the option of shroud burials for everyone, allowing larger river burials, and potentially creating synthetic diamonds from cremated remains, following practices already legal in countries like Switzerland and Austria.
