The German Federal Ministry of Justice is preparing to introduce a nationwide system of electronic monitoring, modeled on the “Spanish model” to enhance protection against domestic violence. Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig announced plans to present a draft bill after the summer recess, aiming to provide a more robust framework for safeguarding victims and children.
Under the proposed legislation, family courts, operating under the existing Domestic Violence Protection Act, will be empowered to mandate electronic ankle monitoring for perpetrators – typically men who have assaulted or threatened former partners. A key feature of the system will be the option for victims to choose whether or not to receive a personal alert device. This device would provide a warning if the offender approaches their location.
The initiative also encompasses compulsory anti-violence training for offenders, alongside strengthened legal provisions to support existing protective measures. Minister Hubig emphasized the importance of extending protections to children, incorporating violence protection measures within child custody law to better shield them from abusive parents.
The proposed law further intends to increase the punitive measures for violations of the Domestic Violence Protection Act, raising the potential penalties from a fine or a maximum of two years imprisonment to a fine or up to three years imprisonment. This aims to reinforce the effectiveness of protective orders.
While a nationwide rollout is anticipated to commence within the next year, the law’s implementation will require translation into practical application by the individual German federal states. Minister Hubig indicated that the states are currently engaged in intense preparation, actively expanding the facilities and resources necessary for successful implementation.