Germany’s Landmark Law to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence
Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner Hails New Law
Berlin’s Governing Mayor, Kai Wegner, has welcomed the passage of Germany’s new Gewalthilfegesetz (Anti-Violence Law). "I am pleased that the Bundesrat (Federal Council) has also unanimously approved this law today," said Wegner, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). "Now it is crucial that the law is implemented quickly and effectively."
Berlin, Wegner stated, will play a proactive role in ensuring that affected women and children receive the necessary support. "The federal government has a responsibility to provide ongoing financial support and to assist the states in this important task," he emphasized.
Wegner highlighted the alarming prevalence of domestic violence in Germany. "Nearly every day, a femicide occurs in our country," he said. "With the Anti-Violence Law, we are sending a clear and bipartisan message: We will do more to protect women and children from violence and abuse."
Berlin’s Social Senator Praises Law as "Historic Step"
Berlin’s Social Senator, Cansel Kiziltepe (SPD), described the law as a "historic step" in the fight against gender-based and domestic violence. "For the first time, we will have binding nationwide structures that victims can rely on," she said.
Law Establishes Legal Entitlement to Support and Protection
The new law grants victims of violence, both women and children, a legal entitlement to free protection and counseling services starting from 2032. States are required to establish sufficient support services and will receive federal funding of €2.6 billion from 2027 to 2036.
Key provisions of the law include:
- Legal Entitlement: Victims of violence have a legal right to access free protection and counseling services.
- Specialized Services: States must provide specialized support services tailored to the specific needs of victims, such as shelters, counseling, and legal assistance.
- Prevention and Awareness: The law requires the federal government and states to implement measures to prevent and raise awareness about domestic violence.
- Data Collection and Research: The law establishes a centralized data collection system to monitor the prevalence and trends of domestic violence, and to inform policy and research.
Broad Political Support
The Anti-Violence Law has garnered broad political support across the political spectrum. The law was passed by the Bundestag (German parliament) in June 2022 and unanimously approved by the Bundesrat on November 25th, 2022.
Importance of Implementation
While the law itself is a significant milestone, experts and advocates emphasize the importance of swift and effective implementation. The success of the law will depend on the commitment of states and municipalities to allocate adequate resources and establish comprehensive support systems for victims.
Conclusion
Germany’s Gewalthilfegesetz is a landmark piece of legislation that aims to provide comprehensive protection and support for victims of domestic violence. The law establishes a legal entitlement to services, strengthens prevention and awareness efforts, and establishes a data collection system to inform policy and research.
While the law’s passage is a cause for celebration, it is crucial that the law be implemented swiftly and effectively to ensure that victims of violence receive the support and protection they deserve.
