Revised initiative by RLP to bolster female safety against aggression
Rhineland-Palatinate is taking significant strides to combat domestic violence against women, with an action plan that includes over 100 measures based on the Istanbul Convention.
The action plan, which is set to be implemented over the coming years, aims to expand the capacity of women's shelters and counseling centers. By 2030, the goal is to increase the number of women's shelter places from the current 107 to at least 210. Every women's shelter in Rhineland-Palatinate is planned to have second-stage apartments by 2030, with an aim that every women's shelter should have these facilities by this date.
Five other ministries are involved in implementing the Istanbul Convention, which focuses on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. The Ministry of Women will coordinate the implementation of the action plan, with a dedicated unit overseeing its execution.
In addition to expanding women's shelters, the action plan also includes the promotion of women's helplines and specialized centers for sexualized violence. These expansions are scheduled for 2023. Furthermore, a model project starting in 2027 will specifically address the needs of boys who have experienced domestic violence.
The state of Rhineland-Palatinate currently operates 19 women's shelters and a network of counseling centers. However, these facilities often struggle to meet the demand, with women and children seeking protection still being turned away due to a lack of space.
To address this issue, an additional 2 million euros will be provided in the 2025 budget year and an additional 0.5 million euros in 2026 for the action plan, totaling around 9 million euros each year for the area of violence against women.
Minister Binz emphasizes that the protection of women and children from violence is considered a societal responsibility. In line with this belief, the state is also expanding the "Confidential Help after Violence" project, which enables confidential trace evidence collection in 11 clinics for women affected by violence. This service is available for women, men, and male teenagers.
International Orange Day on November 25 calls for the fight against violence against women and girls. Rhineland-Palatinate joins this global effort, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all its citizens.
For the most up-to-date and specific information on the exact current number of shelters, the exact goal, and planned numerical increases by 2030 for Rhineland-Palatinate, it is recommended to consult official Rhineland-Palatinate government or social welfare websites, recent policy documents, or reports from agencies specializing in domestic violence support.
The action plan, initiated by the Ministry of Women, aims to boost the health-and-wellness sector by increasing the number of women's shelters from 107 to at least 210 by 2030, which aligns with the mission of the Istanbul Convention focused on women's health. Furthermore, with the implementation of second-stage apartments in every women's shelter by 2030, the state prioritizes science and resources for women's health and wellness, including shelters for women who have experienced domestic violence.