German Neo-Nazi to Enter Women's Prison on August 29 for 18-Month Sentence After Gender Change

Marla-Svenja Liebich, a prominent German far-right extremist formerly known as Sven Liebich, is set to begin an 18-month prison sentence in a women's facility in Chemnitz on August 29, 2025. This development follows Liebich's legal gender change from male to female in late 2024, a move made possible by Germany's new Self-Determination Act. The decision has ignited significant controversy across Germany, with critics questioning the sincerity of the gender change and its implications for the recently enacted law. Liebich was convicted in July 2023 for offenses including incitement to hatred, defamation, and insult.

Liebich, 53, has a long history within the extreme right-wing scene, including past association with the banned neo-Nazi group Blood and Honour. The 18-month sentence, which Liebich unsuccessfully appealed, stems from various offenses, including attempting to sell a baseball bat online as a "deportation aid." Prior to the gender change, Liebich was known for making queerphobic statements and actively opposing the LGBTQ+ movement.

The legal gender change was facilitated by Germany's Self-Determination Act, which came into force in November 2024, allowing individuals to change their gender marker and first name through a simple declaration at a registry office. This contrasts with previous laws that required medical assessments. Critics, including German media outlets like Der Spiegel, have expressed doubt about the seriousness of Liebich's transition, suggesting it might be an attempt to "provoke and embarrass the state" or to seek more favorable prison conditions.

Liebich, who now appears in public wearing women's clothing but often retains a moustache, stated earlier this year that the gender change and request for placement in a female prison were to avoid "discrimination" from male inmates. Chief Public Prosecutor Dennis Cernota confirmed that Liebich would serve the sentence at Chemnitz women's prison. However, Cernota added that prison administration would assess upon arrival whether Liebich poses a threat to security and order, which could lead to a transfer to another facility.

The case has sparked a broader debate regarding the application of the Self-Determination Act and its potential for exploitation. While the law aims to strengthen the rights of transgender individuals, Liebich's case has led some to call it a "legal loophole." Liebich confirmed the August 29 prison entry date in a post on X, stating, > "I will begin my prison sentence as scheduled. On August 29, 2025, at 10pm, I will arrive at the Chemnitz correctional facility with my suitcases."