German Cabinet Approves Groundbreaking Law to Combat Gender-Based Violence
The proposed law introduces a nationwide system of support for victims, but its passage in parliament remains uncertain due to political divisions.
- The Gewalthilfegesetz aims to establish a legal right to protection and support for victims of gender-based and domestic violence, starting in 2030.
- The legislation would require states to ensure adequate shelter and counseling services, with federal funding beginning in 2027 to support these efforts.
- Germany faces a significant shortage of women’s shelter spaces, with over 14,000 additional spots needed to meet international commitments.
- The proposal follows alarming statistics showing a rise in violence against women, including 256,276 reported cases of domestic violence in 2023 and nearly daily femicides.
- With the collapse of the Ampel coalition, the law’s fate depends on opposition support, particularly from the CDU, which has expressed reservations about the bill.