Strafregister

The Strafregister, also known as the criminal record or criminal register, is a formal archive maintained by national or regional law enforcement agencies to document offenses and legal proceedings involving individuals. In many jurisdictions, the record serves multiple purposes: it provides a factual basis for judicial decisions, informs law enforcement investigations, and is used by employers, educational institutions, and government bodies when assessing an individual's suitability for certain positions or privileges.

The contents of a Strafregister typically include the name and personal details of the individual, dates of birth and death, descriptions of criminal convictions, court proceedings, and the legal consequences imposed, such as imprisonment, fines, probation, or community service. In some systems, the register also records administrative sanctions that do not involve criminal charges. The depth of information may vary by country, following differing privacy laws and procedural standards.

Access to the Strafregister is usually restricted. Qualified authorities, such as prosecutors, courts, and certain licensed professionals, may request full or summary entries. In many countries, individuals can request a copy of their own record and have the right to contest or correct inaccuracies under data protection regulations. Laws governing the duration of retention of records also differ; some may mandate the expungement of lesser offenses after a specified period, while others retain all entries indefinitely.

The use and management of criminal records are subject to scrutiny in discussions about civil rights, data protection, and rehabilitation. Critics argue that prolonged inclusion of certain offenses can hinder reintegration, whereas proponents emphasize the importance of transparency for public safety and informed decision‑making. International standards, such as those set by the European Union, provide guidelines on data minimization and individuals' rights to access and rectify information contained in the Strafregister.