Increased Incidence of Domestic Violence in Germany, According to Recent Reports
In Germany, the number of domestic violence cases has been on the rise, with approximately 265,942 people affected in 2024 - a 3.7% increase from the previous year. This concerning trend has sparked calls for reforms from various political and social organisations.
Domestic violence refers to incidents involving people who are or were in a partnership or family relationship. In 2023, 70.5% of victims were female, highlighting the disproportionate impact on women. Statistics show that a person becomes a victim of domestic violence approximately every two minutes.
The German Social Association (SoVD) has expressed concern about these figures, particularly the high prevalence of violence against women with disabilities. Chairwoman Michaela Engelmeier emphasised that women with disabilities experience physical violence almost twice as often as non-disabled women, and there is a lack of places in women's shelters for women with disabilities.
In response, the Federal Ministry of Justice is planning to introduce an electronic ankle monitor for violent offenders, based on the Spanish model, to better protect women from violent partners. Additionally, a law for better protection of victims was approved in February, obliging states to create sufficient protection and counseling services. They will receive a total of 2.6 billion euros from the federal government between 2027 and 2036.
The legal claim to free protection and counseling will come into effect on January 1, 2032. The Greens have also emphasised the need for more prevention and perpetrator work, swift procedures, and mandatory training for police and justice.
The increase in domestic violence cases is influenced by multiple interrelated factors, including societal, economic, and systemic issues. Research and policy reports highlight that gender-based violence and domestic violence often stem from underlying power imbalances in private and public care settings, reflecting broader societal gender inequalities.
The COVID-19 pandemic added pressures such as social isolation and economic hardship, contributing to a rise in reported domestic violence cases. EU-funded projects during 2021-2027 emphasise transnational and multidisciplinary approaches involving legal, educational, and health stakeholders to better address and mitigate domestic violence.
While extremism and societal violence surged in some sectors, these are largely distinct from the dynamics of domestic violence, which is more closely tied to intimate partner or family relationships.
In light of these figures, the 'Counseling Telephone for Violence against Women' is seen as an essential facility. The SoVD, under the leadership of Michaela Engelmeier, continues to advocate for policies and services that address the unique needs of women with disabilities who are victims of domestic violence.
As the German government and various organisations work towards addressing the rising trend of domestic violence, it is clear that comprehensive, coordinated efforts are needed to combat this persistent issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals.
The German Social Association, under the leadership of Michaela Engelmeier, advocates for policies and services that address the unique needs of women with disabilities who are victims of domestic violence, particularly highlighting the high prevalence of physical violence experienced by these women. In response to the rise in domestic violence cases, the Federal Ministry of Justice is planning to introduce an electronic ankle monitor for violent offenders and has approved a law for better protection of victims, requiring states to create sufficient protection and counseling services funded by the federal government.
