Kerstin Claus, the Federal Commissioner against the sexual abuse of children and youth, stated that existing shortcomings reveal the necessity for political action “at all levels.” Addressing the dts Nachrichtenagentur on Tuesday, Claus noted that while federal regulations cannot cover every aspect, the federal level has recognized blind spots. For instance, protection concepts in schools are mandatory in eleven of the sixteen federal states, leaving five areas without required protocols.
However, Claus pointed out that the overall issue of protection concepts lacks essential “quality assurance,” stating that without it, legislative measures are merely “a blunt instrument.” She highlighted specific gaps at the national level within family law and criminal law.
In addition to legislative voids, there are significant funding deficits. These financial gaps are widespread, as evidenced by the lack of adequate funding for specialized local counseling, which is often treated as a voluntary service by municipalities and consequently dropped at the local level.
Claus also stressed that certain obvious decisions are simply not being made. She questioned why engaging with child protection is not a mandatory part of every education degree program, given that every child who suffers abuse eventually goes to school. She further emphasized that while online counseling services are needed, local accessibility and points of contact must also be ensured.
Addressing the need for comprehensive change, Claus explained that due to these structural and financial deficiencies, her office is currently engaging local communities, the federal and state governments, and even the European level. She stressed that cross-sectoral action is required, and believes that a political mandate for such action is necessary in every federal state-and, in her view, in every European member state.
Previously, Claus presented her office’s inaugural report to Bundestag President Julia Klöckner. This report identifies 15 specific political needs targeting the federal government, the states, and municipalities. Among these calls, the federal government, the states, and the EU are urged to implement and finance the recommendations put forth by the expert commission on “Child and Youth Protection in the Digital World,” in September 2026.
