The Independent Federal Commissioner for Anti-Discrimination, Ferda Ataman, warned about necessary consequences after the presentation of a study on sexual assault within the Bundeswehr. She stated that the study clearly shows the Bundeswehr suffers from a macho problem. While she acknowledged that the study was valuable, Ataman insisted that the Bundeswehr must also take active measures. She added that an independent counseling hotline for victims is necessary and correct, but it is insufficient on its own, stressing that a zero-tolerance strategy for perpetrators is also required.
Ataman further noted that sexual harassment is particularly severe in the Bundeswehr because it involves not just a typical workplace, but also demands obedience, physical proximity, and cohesion. The anti-discrimination commissioner demanded that the ban on sexual harassment be taught during every training program and practiced in every barracks. She emphasized that superiors have a duty to enforce consequences and prevent sexual harassment.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) had indicated at the publication of the study that part of an action plan against sexism in the armed forces includes the hotline re-established in early November at the Center for Internal Leadership in Koblenz, where initial consultations are offered outside the military hierarchy.
In response, Sara Nanni, the security policy spokesperson for the Green parliamentary group, explained that the hotline is suitable for providing discussions in acute situations, but no disciplinary consequences follow such consultations. Nanni insisted that an additional reporting route is needed.
