Hanover celebrates 30 years of prevention: Together against catcalling!

Hanover celebrates 30 years of prevention: Together against catcalling!

On December 3, 2025, Hanover celebrated a very special anniversary: ​​30 years of the Municipal Prevention Council (KPR). At a celebratory event that was opened by Mayor Belit Onay, the focus was on cooperation between administration, police, science, associations, initiatives and civil society. A strong network committed to safety and quality of life in the city.

The Lower Saxony Minister of Justice Dr. In her speech, Kathrin Wahlmann highlighted the KPR's preventative activities, especially the efforts against “catcalling”. Under the title “30 Years of KPR – Looking Back, Present, Future”, Alexandra Antwi-Boasiako moderated an exciting round of discussions in which the importance of prevention in an increasingly uncertain world was discussed. Dr. Axel von der Ohe, first city councilor and head of public order, as well as police chief Gwendolin von der Osten emphasized the need for “interconnection” in the KPR network.

Insight into the prevention strategy

A remarkable project that emerged from the intensive work of the KPR is the campaign “Catcalling is OVER in HANNOVER”. This initiative aims to address structural discrimination against FLINTA* people. Catcalling, a form of sexual harassment, often manifests itself in inappropriate comments or catcalling in public spaces. Increasing the visibility of these problems is the declared goal of the campaign, which has been present since last year in places where such attacks occur frequently, such as clubs and restaurants. The posters with cat motifs, which are reminiscent of superheroes, help bring the topic into public focus and create sensitivity.

The effects of catcalling on those affected are diverse and range from changes in clothing style to an increased feeling of security and less courage to leave the house. The city of Hanover does not intend to trivialize this form of harassment, but rather to actively draw attention to it. Further preventive measures by the KPR, such as workshops and awareness campaigns, are intended to help further remove taboos from the topic. The KPR was even able to receive the Lower Saxony Prize for Municipal Prevention 2023 for its efforts.

All-round safe Hanover

“Together for good coexistence in our city” is the motto of the Municipal Prevention Council. Mayor Thomas Hermann would like the districts to be more closely involved in prevention work in order to develop effective measures there too. An exhibition in the Citizens' Hall, which can be seen in the New Town Hall until December 9th and documents the projects and history of the KPR, will show the public the importance of preventative work.

Over the last three decades, the KPR has not only fought against violence and extremism, but also made a valuable contribution to promoting democracy, civil courage and respectful coexistence. Projects such as the aforementioned campaign against catcalling and the “Red Benches for Hanover” initiative are just a few examples that illustrate the KPR's committed networking work. This leads to effective solutions and recommendations for action for various threats, especially with regard to the protection of children and young people. A risk analysis is essential in order to identify and support preventative structures.

A lot is happening in Hanover when it comes to prevention and safety. The city remains active and invests in a livable community that is accessible to all citizens. Because only together can we fight against challenges and create a safe environment.

For further information about the activities of the Municipal Prevention Council, the current projects and the exhibition, take a look at the following links: Hannover.de, together-against-sexism.de, commissioned-abuse.de.