In a candid interview with the Zeitmagazin, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed concerns over the lack of structural protection for female high-ranking politicians in Germany. “Many of my minister colleagues have police protection, but I’m just a target for a specific group – and that’s where the far-right, Putin’s trolls and toxic masculinity come in” she said, referring to the period from July 1, 2020, to January 2, 2025.
Baerbock highlighted the inadequacy of the security measures in response to threats of sexual violence, deepfake pornography and rape fantasies. “Because it doesn’t happen to men” she stated in October 2021.
The attacks on her have also had a significant impact on her private life, Baerbock noted. “As I was on vacation, my apartment was searched for bugs. Things like that, I don’t forget” she said. In addition to a direct murder threat, Baerbock has also experienced stalking incidents.
In a later conversation, Baerbock discussed further incidents. “Since the Ukraine war, it’s taken on a different quality, especially from the Russian side. It affects other women as well, like the hacked chat of the Moldovan president, with fake chat transcripts circulating, along with photos. I’m more afraid of that than of my car being blown up” she said.