The Independent Federal Anti-Discrimination Officer, Ferda Ataman, is calling for a significant overhaul of German law to provide stronger legal protection for women facing sexual harassment in everyday situations. Currently, the legal framework fails to adequately safeguard women experiencing unwanted advances while shopping, attending fitness classes, pursuing driving lessons, or searching for accommodation.
Speaking to Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, Ataman underscored a critical gap in the legal system. While efforts are underway to strengthen criminal law to address sexual harassment, she emphasized that this form of abuse frequently manifests outside of traditional workplaces. “Sexual harassment finds its way into daily life and women are currently without substantial recourse” she stated.
The existing General Act on Equal Treatment (AGG) prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace, but this protection does not extend to non-work-related contexts. Ataman’s call for AGG reform aims to bridge this disparity, providing women with the legal tools to challenge unwanted advances in seemingly innocuous everyday interactions. The Anti-Discrimination Office has reportedly witnessed a rise in reports from women experiencing sexual harassment during processes like apartment hunting, where inappropriate propositions often go unaddressed due to the absence of legal recourse.
While acknowledging the ongoing discussion regarding a tougher criminal code to combat sexual harassment, Ataman stressed that this alone is insufficient. The current legal void leaves women vulnerable and without legal means to challenge the behavior.
The call for legislative change has garnered support from across the political spectrum. CDU politician Martin Plum, a member of the parliamentary group for the Union factions in the Legal Committee, echoed the sentiment that sexual harassment is unacceptable in all forms. However, Plum cautioned against “hasty actions” highlighting the possibility of existing provisions within the Civil Code already offering a level of protection. He also referenced the coalition agreement between the Union and SPD parties, which includes a commitment to reform the AGG, adding that the government is currently evaluating the need for further legislative interventions.