Overview

• Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig of the SPD is reviewing options that range from creating a dedicated criminal offense to imposing fines for verbal harassment in public spaces.
• Under current criminal law, sexual harassment typically requires physical contact, so many catcalling incidents fall outside prosecutable offenses.
• Party positions diverge as CDU figures argue against a new crime, Greens urge action in line with European examples, and the FDP proposes handling cases as administrative offenses with fines.
• Victim-support organizations endorse clearer rules but stress the need for prevention efforts, accessible complaint mechanisms, and enforcement resources.
• Reporting highlights catcalling as a common experience that undermines victims’ sense of safety and can alter their daily behavior.