Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Karin Prien (CDU), has called for enhanced protection for young people aged 14 to 18 against sexual violence, arguing that current legal frameworks leave gaps. Speaking to ZDF-Frontal, Prien stated that where criminal liability is lacking, the legislature must intervene. She specifically referenced situations where minors are in a dependency relationship with significantly older offenders, such as within a school environment. Prien pointed out, “When a 50-year-old and a 14-year-old have a sexual relationship, much indicates that there is also an imbalance of power and dependencies.” She believes this is an area where the law could be strengthened.
The documentary “Tatort Schule – Missbrauch durch Lehrer” highlights these issues, focusing among other cases on the instance of a 14-year-old female student in Berlin. The Berlin Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated a procedure regarding sexual abuse of vulnerable persons against the teacher, who was twice her age. The prosecution stated that it is “rather rare” that individuals “over 14 generally are not capable of adequately grasping the meaning and significance of sexual relationships.” That particular case was ultimately dropped because the victim changed schools, severing any educational contact with the accused teacher.
Currently, Article 174 of the German Criminal Code addresses the offense of sexual abuse of vulnerable persons. During investigations, prosecutors must determine if a dependency relationship exists between the perpetrator and the minor victim. Discussions also surround Article 182(3) of the Criminal Code, which relates to a victim’s lack of ability to determine their own sexual choice, a capability that depends not just on age, but also on developmental maturity. Prien suggests that the legislature could tighten these regulations in response to her demands.
Prien emphasized that sexual abuse by teachers “is a particularly brutal and cruel way to inflict harm on children and young people,” stressing that the existence of a dependency relationship makes these acts “particularly reprehensible.” She asserted that it is the state’s duty “to protect children and young people in this capacity.”
Separately, the former teacher of the Berlin student was sentenced in the first instance by the Berlin Regional Court on June 12, 2026, to five years and three months imprisonment for rape and sexual abuse of vulnerable persons. This sentence stemmed from four other former students. He has indicated his intention to appeal the verdict.
