The Bundestag recently passed legislation titled “Strengthening the Rights of Victims, Especially in Severe Violence and Sexual Crimes, to Psychosocial Process Support,” ensuring that more victims of sexual and violent crimes will receive psychosocial support throughout the legal process. The approval came after CDU/CSU and the SPD factions voted in favor, while the AfD faction registered their opposition. The Greens abstained following the rejection of their amendment.
Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) elaborated on the necessity of this measure, explaining that testifying in court demands enormous strength from victims, particularly when the accused is their former partner. She noted that professional support can help victims find the courage needed to give evidence, which is why the law establishes a right to psychosocial process support for victims of domestic violence.
Hubig expressed deep satisfaction with the Bundestag’s passage of this significant law. She described it as another vital component of the state’s strategy to better protect against violence, serving as a clear signal to all affected individuals: “You are not alone. The state stands by you.”
Previously, since 2017, minors and adults deemed particularly vulnerable who had been victims of sexual or severe violent crimes have been entitled to professional non-legal support and care throughout the criminal process. This psychosocial support encompasses specialized non-legal assistance, information relay, and aid during the judicial proceedings. Under the new law, the aim is to improve access to this support and expand the range of individuals eligible for free psychosocial process assistance.
