After presenting a new dark‑field study on violence, demands for concrete action grow louder. The German Federation of Women’s Counseling Centres and Women’s Emergency Calls (Bundesverband Frauenberatungsstellen und Frauennotrufe – BFF) urges a significant expansion and secure funding of the help system. “We urgently need to build the support network and provide structural and financial stability” said Claudia Igney, BFF spokesperson, to the Funke Media Group’s Tuesday newspapers. The Violence Assistance Act adopted in 2025 is a first step; it creates a legal right to protection and assistance for all women affected by gender‑based and domestic violence from 2032 onward. Igney added that this must be implemented consistently and according to need.
To reduce violence, far more is required. “This is a societal responsibility” she said. A coordinated approach is essential, combining prevention, support for victims, victim protection, law enforcement, perpetrator work (such as social training courses for those who commit violence), and ongoing training for professionals in health care, education, police, and the judiciary.
The study highlights that the dark field-incidents not reported to the police-is especially large in partner violence. “Less than five percent of violent acts are known to the police” Igney noted. “Low‑threshold support options, such as specialised counselling centres, are therefore crucial”. These services tailor their help to what the victim currently needs and wants. “If the incident has just occurred, the first priority may be processing the experience, regaining stability in daily life, and planning the next steps” she explained.
For partner violence, measures under the Violence Protection Act, such as contact and approach bans against a violent (ex‑)partner, can be effective. Some women may need to move in with a friend for a few days to regroup before deciding on other actions. If there are shared children, the arrangements for visitation and custody must be discussed. Low‑threshold help also requires training for all professionals who interact with victims, including medical staff.
Igney pointed out that youth are especially affected by violence. “Prevention and support must start early” she told the Funke newspapers, in kindergartens and schools. “Societal equality of the sexes and the reduction of power imbalances are essential. Wherever power inequality and dependence exist, violence can flourish”. She cited examples such as employers abusing their authority and women trapped in relationships due to financial dependence. Many areas require societal change; while progress is being made, it is often piecemeal. “Protection from violence and help for those affected must always be a priority-never only on 25 November or when a new study is released”.
Meanwhile, Greens parliamentary group leader Britta Haßelmann describes Germany’s violence situation as a “massive problem”. “The extent of violence against women is alarming; they are frequently victims of violence and sexual assault” she said, in light of the dark‑field study. For years, women have reported structural violence, and they need more protection and a voice. The Violence Assistance Act is an important step, but Haßelmann insists that the current government must consistently advance it and stand with women affected by violence. Achieving this requires strengthening low‑threshold drop‑in centres, expanding services for women in distress, and improving protection for women and queer people. “Violence has no place in our society” she declared.
