Refurbishing of sexual abuse: Commission of dioceses failed

Refurbishing of sexual abuse: Commission of dioceses failed

The processing of sexual abuse in the dioceses of Berlin, Görlitz and Dresden-Meißen is criticized. As reported [T-Online] (https://www.t-online.de/region/desden/id_100764890/MSCHUME-in-Bistuemern-berlin-goerlitz-dresden-trauf. The dealing with the interdiocesan commission, which has been active since May 2023, follows several resignations and an internal conflict that was characterized by different views within the Commission. Bishop Heinrich Timmerevers described the collaboration as "dysfunctional" and regrets the early end of the educational work.

Matthias Katsch from the initiative "Cornery Table" criticizes the commission sharply and question the independence of its work. He criticizes the influence of the dioceses on the investigation and calls for a comprehensive nationwide investigation. Katsch knows what he is talking about - even he was a victim of sexual violence at a Catholic high school in Berlin. "It is frustrating that the clarification will stall again," he said, and doubts that the abuse crimes can now be processed.

The role of the Commission

The Interdiocesan Commission aimed to uncover not only abuse cases, but also to take a look at the structural requirements for such acts. Nine experts from various areas - judiciary, medicine and politics - had been initiated to work on this complex topic. Preparations for this began as early as 2021. But according to Timmerevers, the path was rocky from the start, and the hurdles ultimately seemed insurmountable.

Independent processing is not an easy undertaking. As processing commission, the power structures within the churches are often a hindrance to an honest information. Affected people remember their experiences long before the 2010 scandals when many voices finally heard. The reports of sexual violence and cover -up in the communities show how important it is to openly discuss these topics and not to keep it in secret.

politics and responsibility

The reactions of the bishops to the latest developments are consistently influenced by the dismay. They regret the dissolution of the Commission and reaffirm their commitment to take the topic seriously. However, as Katsch rightly notes, politics is challenged to take on more responsibility here. The silence and discouragement are not the solution to tackle the grievances. The topic remains at the top of the agenda.

An independent look at the structures is necessary. The independent processing commission of the Catholic Church in Cologne has named, among other things, members who are committed to the concerns of those affected. This includes experienced lawyers and experts from the field of psychology. With their expertise and humanity, they all make a need that the Church not only faces its past, but also seeks ways for a better future.

What remains is the hope of an early nationwide solution. An independent investigation commission could possibly set the necessary impulses to break through the vicious circle of abuse of power and give those affected a voice. The processing is far from complete, the voice of those affected must become louder.