Increased Incidences of Unreported Home Violence
In recent years, Germany has seen a significant increase in domestic violence cases, with the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) reporting a total of 171,069 victims in 2021, marking an increase of 1.9% compared to the previous year [1]. This trend is not unique to Germany, as similar patterns have been observed in high-income countries worldwide.
The reasons for this increase are complex and multifaceted. One key factor is the growing awareness and reporting of domestic violence, facilitated by legal reforms, improved support systems, and enhanced data collection by authorities and NGOs [2]. This is supported by the fact that around 73% of domestic violence victims in Germany are women, indicating a greater willingness to come forward and seek help [1].
The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns have also played a role in exacerbating conditions such as social isolation, financial strain, and psychological stress, which are known risk factors for domestic violence [2]. This has led to an increase in occurrences and reports globally, including in Germany.
Socio-economic stressors, such as rising economic uncertainty, unemployment, and social tensions linked with immigration and integration challenges, may also contribute to the rise in domestic violence cases [2]. These factors can lead to increased household conflicts and violence.
The Greens, a political party in Germany, have emphasised the need for more prevention and perpetrator work, fast-track proceedings, and mandatory training for police and justice [1]. They view violence against women as "patriarchal violence" and call for reforms to custody and access rights, as well as improvements in protection and counseling services [1].
The German government has taken steps to address this issue. The Bundesrat approved a law for better protection of victims in February, and the states will receive a total of 2.6 billion euros from the federal government between 2027 and 2036 [1]. The legal claim to free protection and counseling will come into effect on 1 January 2032 [1].
As we continue to grapple with this issue, it is crucial to remember that every victim deserves support and protection. By understanding the complex factors contributing to the rise in domestic violence, we can work towards creating a safer and more equitable society for all.
[1] Welt am Sonntag, various articles on domestic violence in Germany, accessed on 2022-03-01. [2] Various research studies on domestic violence dynamics and risk factors, accessed on 2022-03-01.
- The growing awareness and reporting of domestic violence, a key factor in its increase, is facilitated by employment policies such as legal reforms and enhanced data collection by authorities and NGOs.
- In the discourse of women's health and general news, the Greens in Germany have advocated for more prevention strategies, stronger penal procedures, and increased training for law enforcement in addressing domestic violence, recognizing it as 'patriarchal violence'.
- To combat the rise in domestic violence cases, the German government, under the umbrella of health-and-wellness and crime-and-justice, has implemented protective measures and allocated resources for better victim support, ensuring free protection and counseling services through community policy initiatives.
