Summer campaign: Together against sexual harassment and stalking!

Summer campaign: Together against sexual harassment and stalking!

The summer weather has arrived, but many women are not looking forward to the warmer months without worries. The Domestic Violence Network is conducting a summer campaign to draw attention to the increasing cases of sexual harassment and stalking. These forms of attack are significantly increasing in our country, and there are widespread ideas that trivialize these acts. Sexual harassment and stalking are not trivial offenses, but clear crimes, both in private and public spaces.

The initiators of the campaign want to raise awareness among the population with a poster campaign. Public pools in particular are believed to have a lower inhibition threshold for perpetrators, which is why the posters are specifically placed in checkout areas, toilets, changing areas and catering establishments. “We want victims not to hide and to know that help is available,” explains Nadine Hofmann, the equal opportunities officer. Those affected are advised to report incidents and take care of their mental health.

Current figures and backgrounds

According to the report “Monitor violence against women” According to the German Institute for Human Rights, violence against women is widespread in Germany. It often happens in a personal environment, and yet many acts remain undetected. A high number of unreported cases and a reduced willingness to report crimes, often triggered by shame and guilt, make it easy for perpetrators. The report shows developments in the period from 2020 to 2022 and documents the efforts of the federal and state governments to meet the obligations of the Istanbul Convention.

The numbers speak for themselves: in 2023, 71% of the approximately 256,000 victims of domestic violence were women. The numbers are particularly alarming when it comes to intimate partner violence. Around 79% of the victims were women, while around 144,000 cases of intentional simple bodily harm fall into this unreported category. The data shows that almost all sexual crimes are committed by female victims and that young girls and women are particularly affected.

Offers of help and support

There are numerous offers of help for women who are themselves affected by violence. The “Violence Against Women” helpline has been active since 2013 and recorded around 86,700 contacts in 2023. In addition, there are 378 women's shelters that offer protection - many, but not always with sufficient capacity. Last year around 30,200 women and children found refuge there, although many had to be turned away due to lack of space. This shows how great the need for suitable housing and shelters is.

The network's campaign against domestic violence and the accompanying offers should encourage everyone to become more active. So while we relax in the summer or enjoy the outdoor pool, it is important to keep a close eye on our surroundings and guide victims of violence to help. Everyone can make a contribution to reducing the number of unreported cases and creating a safe environment for everyone.