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.