Global day of action against violence against women on 25 November
Press release by the Equal Opportunities Officer
"Live free without violence": this motto has accompanied the day of action on 25 November for 19 years now. Since then, campaigners from all over the world have joined forces to draw the attention of the public, politicians and the media to the issue of violence against women.
For many years, organisations, associations, local politicians and committed women have been working to make this day something special: with commemorative events, education, lectures, readings, films and discussions. Nevertheless, violence against girls and women is still a topical issue.
The women's and girls' rights organisation TERRE DES FEMMES, which is particularly committed to the day of action throughout Germany, is focusing on forced and early marriages in 2020. Coercion, experiences of sexualised violence and the lack of prospects for often very young women and girls due to marriage are addressed under the #meinherzgehörtmir campaign.
The website https://www.frauenrechte.de/unsere-arbeit/themen/gewalt-im-namen-der-ehre/schwerpunkt-fruehehen provides a wealth of information on the background to forced and early marriages as well as demands for support for those affected.
The planned event in Chemnitz unfortunately has to be cancelled this year due to the coronavirus crisis. This also has a particular impact on the lives of women. The Federal Ministry for Women's Affairs already agreed measures with the gender equality and women's affairs ministers of the federal states in spring that can provide concrete help for women. Federal Minister Franziska Giffey said: "It is important that women now receive protection and counselling quickly and unbureaucratically. Together, the federal government, federal states and local authorities can do a lot to achieve this. Women who experience violence at home need lifelines such as the helpline or a safe haven."
One of the measures is that the "Violence against women" helpline will continue to provide round-the-clock counselling in 18 languages for those affected, their social environment and professionals. Every effort is being made to ensure that the helpline remains operational and functional despite the coronavirus crisis.
The number is: 08000 116 016.
In Chemnitz, the intervention and coordination centre for combating domestic violence can be contacted on 0371 918 5354 or by email at info(at)ikos-chemnitz.de.
The Women's Aid Chemnitz e. V. has the number 0371 401 4075.