Federal Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU) described violence as a societal phenomenon that extends beyond intimate partner abuse to include conflicts in the digital realm, as she said on ARD’s “Tagesthemen”. She called for stronger counseling and support when people report abuse and urged a broader approach that goes beyond criminal measures.
Prien stressed that violence must never be seen as a legitimate way to resolve disputes. “We have to talk more openly about this in families, kindergartens and schools-and take the topic more seriously” she told viewers. She warned that many men feel uncertain about their role expectations, which can fuel violent behaviour.
According to studies, the majority of violent incidents target women. Prien said the issue also affects boys and men, adding that nothing is acceptable. “It is also an educational imperative that kindergartens and schools give this more attention” she added.
The study also highlights migration as a factor. Prien said it is crucial to investigate why women with a migration background are disproportionately exposed to violence. “We have to take this seriously and explore the reasons” she said.
Looking ahead, Prien announced that funding for measures under the Violence‑Help Act will start on 1 January 2027. “The federal government will provide 2.6 billion euros to municipalities and states, and this funding will begin to be paid out in 2027” she explained. However, she warned that it will take several years before the actual needs are fully met. Presently, needs analyses are being carried out in the individual states, she said.
Finally, Prien emphasized the need for regular studies. Data must be collected in a comparable way, and the new EU legislation now requires that Germany does so. “We are currently coordinating this with the Interior Ministry and the German Federal Criminal Police Office” she added.