Berlin, February 14, 2025. The Women's Shelter Coordination Association (FHK) welcomes the Federal Council's approval of the Violence Assistance Act and sees it as a significant step forward in the fight against gender-based violence . This approval implements a key element of the Istanbul Convention, which obligates Germany to take comprehensive measures to protect women from violence.
"The Violence Assistance Act finally lays the foundation for a comprehensive, needs-based support system for women and their children affected by violence," explains Stefanie Leich, Chair of the Board of Directors of FHK. "It's a milestone that demonstrates that politicians have recognized the urgency of this issue."
The law provides a legal right to free and needs-based assistance or counseling for those affected by violence, as well as guaranteed funding, in which the federal government participates.
FHK appeals to the federal and state governments to consistently push forward the implementation of the law.
"Now it is crucial that the expansion of women's shelters and specialist counseling centers is tackled quickly so that the measures adopted actually reach those affected," emphasizes Stefanie Leich.
Furthermore, the next federal government must continue to view the issue as a cross-cutting issue and ensure that all those affected by gender-based violence have access to help and counseling.
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Current women's shelter statistics
