Escalating Domesticated Aggression in Germany
Germany Sees Record High in Domestic Violence Cases in 2024
In a concerning development, Germany recorded more than 256,900 domestic violence victims in 2024, marking the highest number since records began. This represents a 3.7 percent increase compared to 2023, which already saw elevated cases [1][3][5].
The majority of victims were women, with 73 percent of the cases involving female victims. This means that nearly three out of every four cases involved women [1].
Specifically, 171,069 cases involved violence by current or former partners, up 1.9 percent from the previous year. There were 94,873 cases related to intra-family violence by relatives other than partners, which rose sharply by 7.3 percent [1].
The trend over recent years shows a steady rise: around 240,547 cases were reported in 2022 (an 8.5% increase over 2021), and numbers have climbed each year through 2024 [1].
The Federal Ministry of the Interior suggests that the increase could be due to an increase in violence readiness in times of societal crises and personal challenges, as well as an increased willingness to report [2]. However, the Greens have stated that violence against women is not about "family dramas," but about "patriarchal violence," and have called for more prevention, perpetrator work, fast-track procedures, and mandatory training for police and justice [4].
In response to the rising numbers, the German Social Association (SoVD) has expressed concern. The chairwoman, Michaela Engelmeier, has emphasized that domestic violence usually means violence against women and has highlighted the need for more resources for women's shelters, especially for women with disabilities [6].
Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig is planning an electronic ankle monitor for violent offenders, based on the Spanish model, to better protect women from violent partners [7].
The Bundesrat approved a law in February for better protection of victims of domestic violence. This law will oblige the federal states to create sufficient protection and counseling services, receiving a total of 2.6 billion euros from the federal government between 2027 and 2036 [8]. From January 1, 2032, victims will also have the right to free protection and counseling [9].
Domestic violence is referred to when it involves persons who are or were in a partnership or have a family relationship, or when the violence occurs within the family [10].
In summary, domestic violence in Germany continues to escalate, with over a quarter-million victims recorded in 2024, a steady year-on-year rise, predominantly affecting women and involving both partner and family members as perpetrators [1][3][5]. Efforts are being made to address this issue, with new laws and resources being implemented to better protect victims and address the root causes of domestic violence.
[1] Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) report 2024 [2] Federal Ministry of the Interior report 2024 [3] German Women's Shelters Network report 2024 [4] Greens' statement on domestic violence 2024 [5] Statistical report on domestic violence in Germany 2024 [6] German Social Association (SoVD) statement on domestic violence 2024 [7] Interview with Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig on electronic ankle monitor 2024 [8] Bundesrat's law for better protection of victims of domestic violence 2024 [9] German Government's announcement on free protection and counseling for victims of domestic violence 2024 [10] Definition of domestic violence by the German Government 2024
- The increasing trend of domestic violence in Germany, particularly within the family and involving partners, has prompted attention in the fields of health-and-wellness, specifically in the area of mental-health and women's-health.
- The record high number of domestic violence cases in 2024 has garnered significant general-news coverage, with discussions around crime-and-justice and parenting also emerging.
- More resources are being allocated to address the soaring domestic violence cases in Germany, with focus on accommodations for women's-shelters, including facilities catering to those with disabilities.
- Policymakers have suggested implementing measures to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable, such as mandatory training for law enforcement and the use of electronic ankle monitors, inspired by models from other countries.
- The German Government has passed new legislation designed to offer better protection and counseling services for victims of domestic violence, allocating a substantial budget between 2027 and 2036, and ensuring free protection and counseling for victims from 2032 onwards.
