Domestic violence: Making the invisible suffering of women in Pasewalk visible!

Domestic violence: Making the invisible suffering of women in Pasewalk visible!

It is a harsh reality that many women and men in Germany have to experience every day: domestic violence often remains invisible, even though one in three women is affected in the course of their lives. These frightening statistics are presented in an article by Northern Courier thematised. It happens almost every day that women are killed by partners or ex-partners, which is known as femicide.

But what exactly does the term domestic violence mean? It's not just physical attacks, but also psychological violence, such as threats, insults and control. Women are predominantly those affected, but men are not immune to this type of violence. That's how it reported Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth that almost half of women with disabilities have experienced sexual violence, adding to the complex and worrying issue.

A gradual process

Domestic violence often manifests itself in a gradual process in which the first warning signs are often not recognized. At the beginning of a relationship, perpetrators often appear charming and engaging, but their partner is soon devalued and isolated. Women are often controlled through financial dependencies, constant calls or the use of tracking apps. The shame and sense of responsibility, especially when they have children together, keeps many women trapped in these relationships and prevents them from taking the first step towards change.

As the advice center in Pasewalk emphasizes, opening up to trusted people or advice centers is the first step towards liberation. This advice center will be moving soon, but the telephone number will remain the same: 03973 2049975. Around the International Day against Violence against Women, which is celebrated annually on November 25th, numerous actions take place in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to draw attention to the issue and offer support. The “Long Breath” brochure was also created, which provides valuable information.

The numbers speak volumes

Statistics clearly show the reality of domestic violence and intimate partner violence. In 2023, around 181,000 were victims of domestic violence, 71 percent of whom were women. Almost four out of five cases of intimate partner violence also affect women. According to information from Statista Every third woman in Germany is a victim of physical and/or sexual violence at least once in her life.

• 167.865 Menschen wurden 2023 Opfer von Partnerschaftsgewalt, wobei etwa 133.000 davon Frauen waren.
• Jede vierte Frau wird mindestens einmal Opfer körperlicher oder sexualisierter Gewalt durch den aktuellen oder früheren Partner.

Women with disabilities are particularly affected, as they are two to three times more likely to be affected by violence. These shocking figures make it clear that domestic violence is widespread and often takes place in personal or social circles. The contagious feelings of shame and guilt often result in women not even going to the police, even if they experience violence.

Outsiders can help by showing interest in the topic and offering those affected contact points such as the advice center in Pasewalk. The helpline “Violence against Women” on 116 016 is also available to provide help and support those affected. The most powerful weapon against this form of violence is awareness in society and the courage to speak out about it.