A record number of individuals have been identified as victims of domestic violence in Germany, reaching 256,942 in the past year, according to figures released by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). This marks a new all-time high, with statistics indicating that approximately one person was affected by violence from a partner, former partner, or close relative every two minutes.
The figures represent a 3.7 percent increase compared to the previous year and a near 14 percent rise in reported incidents over the last five years. Within this overall figure, 171,069 individuals were identified as victims of partner violence (a 1.9 percent increase), while 94,873 were recorded as victims of violence within the family (a 7.3 percent increase). Women constitute approximately 73 percent of all domestic violence victims.
The Family Ministry attributes this increase to potentially heightened levels of violence linked to societal crises and personal challenges. However, the ministry also acknowledged the possibility that greater reporting willingness is contributing to the rise in recorded cases. The Violence Protection Act, passed in February, is viewed as a significant step forward in combating domestic violence, establishing a legal entitlement to counseling and protection for affected women, including guaranteed places in women’s shelters, beginning in 2032.
Jasmina Hostert, the SPD’s parliamentary spokesperson for women’s policy, emphasized the need for ratification and full implementation of the Istanbul Convention across all EU member states. This international treaty obligates Germany to implement specific measures to prevent violence against women. Hostert further advocated for effective prevention measures backed by EU funding and broader public awareness campaigns.
The Green Party stated that violence against women is not a matter of “family dramas” but rather a manifestation of “patriarchal violence”. The party called for increased preventative measures and perpetrator intervention programs, alongside expedited legal proceedings and mandatory training for police and justice personnel.
The Left party is advocating for reforms to custody and visitation rights, noting that abusive former partners often exploit these legal avenues to maintain control over their former partners.