Bundesrat and Federal Government Issue Statements on Gender-Based and Domestic Violence Bill
2023-01-08 11:00
Berlin, Germany: The Bundesrat (Federal Council) and Federal Government have issued statements on the draft law for a reliable support system for gender-based and domestic violence (Drucksache 20/14342).
Bundesrat Statement
The Bundesrat has welcomed the core concerns of the draft law, which aims to improve protection and support for victims of gender-based and domestic violence. However, the Bundesrat has also raised several concerns and recommendations, including:
- Expanding the definition of domestic violence to include psychological and economic violence.
- Strengthening the role of the Federal Office for Victims of Crime (BAFO) in coordinating and supporting assistance measures.
- Improving access to emergency accommodation and other protective measures for victims.
- Ensuring adequate funding for the implementation of the law.
Federal Government Counterstatement
The Federal Government has acknowledged the concerns raised by the Bundesrat and has agreed to consider them in the further legislative process. The Federal Government has emphasized its commitment to providing comprehensive support and protection for victims of gender-based and domestic violence.
The Federal Government has also stated that it will:
- Explore the possibility of expanding the definition of domestic violence to include psychological and economic violence.
- Strengthen the coordination role of the BAFO in supporting assistance measures for victims.
- Improve access to emergency accommodation and other protective measures for victims.
- Provide adequate funding for the implementation of the law.
Next Steps
The draft law will now be further discussed in the Bundestag (Federal Parliament). The Bundesrat’s concerns and the Federal Government’s counterstatement will be taken into consideration during the legislative process.
Background
Gender-based and domestic violence is a significant problem in Germany, affecting millions of people each year. The draft law aims to address this issue by providing comprehensive support and protection for victims.
The law would introduce a number of new measures, including:
- A nationwide hotline for victims of gender-based and domestic violence.
- Increased funding for shelters and other support services for victims.
- Mandatory training for police officers and other professionals who work with victims of gender-based and domestic violence.
- Stronger penalties for perpetrators of gender-based and domestic violence.
Significance
The draft law is a significant step towards improving the protection and support for victims of gender-based and domestic violence. The Bundesrat’s concerns and the Federal Government’s counterstatement reflect the ongoing commitment to addressing this important issue in Germany.
20/14437: Unterrichtung Entwurf eines Gesetzes für ein verlässliches Hilfesystem bei geschlechtsspezifischer und häuslicher Gewalt – Drucksache 20/14342 – Stellungnahme des Bundesrates und Gegenäußerung der Bundesregierung (PDF)
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