The German Federal Ministry of Justice is planning enhanced measures to address the rising incidence of domestic violence. Minister Stefanie Hubig announced on Monday that the ministry intends to introduce electronic monitoring, commonly known as ankle bracelets, allowing family courts across Germany to mandate their use in cases involving severe psychological or physical abuse.
The proposed legislation aims to offer a more robust tool for safeguarding victims and deterring perpetrators. Currently, options for monitoring are limited and the new framework seeks to provide courts with a more direct means of ensuring compliance with restraining orders and protective measures.
Beyond electronic monitoring, Minister Hubig also indicated a focus on the impact of domestic violence on parental rights. The ministry is exploring measures to potentially restrict or eliminate custody and visitation rights for individuals convicted of violent acts within a family setting, particularly when children are involved. This aims to emphasize the incompatibility of domestic violence and responsible parenting.
Official figures reveal a concerning trend, with over 265,000 instances of domestic violence recorded last year, representing a 3.8% rise compared to the previous year. This increase underscores the urgent need for strengthened preventative and reactive strategies. The proposed changes are expected to be subject to parliamentary debate and further refinement.
