Help signal on postcards: Göttingen takes a stand against violence against women

Help signal on postcards: Göttingen takes a stand against violence against women

An important signal against violence against women is being sent today in Göttingen. On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, November 25th, postcards with a “Help signal for violence” are now available in numerous restaurants and pubs. This campaign, organized by the Equal Opportunities Office of the City of Göttingen, is intended to give women in threatening situations an inconspicuous means of signaling for help - without using loud words. NDR reports that the help signal consists of a simple hand movement: the hand is held open, the thumb is placed in the palm and the fingers close into a fist. Anyone who recognizes this signal is called upon to provide assistance or contact the authorities.

But what is behind this initiative? According to various reports, violence against women is a pressing problem that spans many facets. T-Online points out that almost every third woman in Germany is affected by physical or sexual violence at least once in her life. The perpetrators are often the partners themselves, which makes it difficult for many women to get help directly because they are under strong control. The current action is not just a symbolic gesture, but a concrete step to offer victims an opportunity to escape.

An urgent social problem

The numbers speak for themselves: In 2024, Germany recorded a total of 308 women strangled, often the result of (ex-)partner violence. BMBF informs that the protection of men should not be ignored either, after all, 20.7 percent of victims of intimate partner violence are male. The help signal is primarily intended for women, but any man can also use this gesture if they find themselves in an awkward situation.

The situation is worrying and this is further reinforced by the number of unreported cases. Unfortunately, it is often the case that many acts of violence are not reported at all, which makes it difficult to accurately record them. The federal-state working group on “domestic violence” therefore recommends measures to protect everyone affected in order to reduce these tragic statistics.

Act concretely and inform

But how can people recognize when someone is in distress? The hand gesture of the help signal should be used as an inconspicuous call for help not only in the real world, but also in digital spaces. It is important to be aware, especially in times of video calls. T-Online recommends acting cautiously in the event of detection and asking specific questions that must be answered with “yes” or “no”. This minimizes the risk to the victim and signals that help is necessary.

The emergency numbers are also crucial. In Germany, those affected can seek help or get anonymous advice by calling 116 016 (helpline for violence against women). This support is not only important on campaign days, but should be available at all times.

The challenge of preventing violence and providing security to victims remains. But with initiatives like the Help Signal in Göttingen, a step in the right direction is being taken to raise awareness and help where help is needed.