Germany’s national hotline for violence against women saw record calls in 2024.
The annual report of the Helpline was released on Monday, saying the number has been contacted 61,235 times.
According to the Federal Office for Functions of Family Affairs and Civil Society (BAFZA), the figure is more than triple the 18,812 calls recorded in 2013.
Inquiries about domestic and sexual violence constitute the majority of calls, accounting for 72 percent, the report said.
“These figures show that the support of the women affected by violence is very important,” said Bavza President Martina Hannak.
According to the latest report, 75% of those seeking advice are affected by violence themselves, while family and friends account for 20% and professionals account for 4%.
Similar to previous years, 89% of contacts were conducted by phone, while the rest used online consultations (such as live chat).
The helpline was established in March 2013. The 116 016 figure is available throughout Europe.
About 100 counselors help women affected by violence in several languages anonymous and secretly for free.
Contact can also be done by chat or email.
In addition to providing support in an acute crisis situation, the hotline also forwards affected women and girls to local counseling centers and women’s shelters where they can seek protection.
