Deutsche Bahn (DB) is calling for passengers to show more respect toward railroad staff and is expanding its security technology, planning to incorporate audio recording devices alongside body cameras in trains.
Echoing this message, the railway system has begun displaying posters in stations and on trains that bear the phrase, “The dignity of man is inviolable – Even for all in uniform”. The company stated that this initiative aims to reawaken passengers and curb the increasing assaults against DB employees.
During the unveiling of the campaign, the political context highlighted the deadly attack on a train attendant that occurred three months prior. Transportation Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) expressed continued grief and shock over the death of Serkan Calar. He stated that the measures implemented are designed to send a “clear signal” in response to the growing number of insults and attacks, stressing that human dignity must be upheld regardless of whether ticketing checks are being conducted or if the train is delayed. He added, “Anyone who wears a uniform deserves respect and recognition”.
Meanwhile, Bahn Chief Evelyn Palla asserted that “Respect is the basis for security” emphasizing that the campaign clearly signals: “Violence and assaults have no place with the railway”.
This entire initiative forms part of the “Action Plan for Increased Safety on the Rails” which was approved during a recent safety summit. The Bahn reported that the initial evaluation after two months has been positive, noting that roughly 2,000 body cameras are already operational across the entire network. Furthermore, by 2026, all DB employees with customer-facing roles who wish to do so will have access to a body camera.
To further enhance the protective and de-escalating effects of existing body cameras, the Bahn plans to test audio recording devices in the third quarter of this year. Separately, DB Regio has launched a pilot project involving dual staffing in local transport, and over the past 12 months, the number of their security personnel has been increased from 4,500 to 5,000 people.
