On November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, campaigns are held worldwide to fight against violence and for the rights of women and girls. This day of remembrance, established by the UN General Assembly in 1999, draws attention to the shocking reality that one in three women in Germany experience physical or sexual violence at least once in their lives. Even more alarming is that every day a perpetrator attempts to kill a woman, and every two days a woman in Germany is murdered by her partner.
Violence against women has many faces - from physical and sexual violence to psychological terror and financial dependency. Much of this remains hidden, as only reported cases are included in the crime statistics and a high number of unreported cases can be assumed.
Broad commitment in Frankfurt
Frankfurt is once again drawing attention to the issue this year with a variety of campaigns and events. Tina Zapf-Rodríguez, Head of the Department for Climate, Environment and Women, emphasizes the importance of this commitment: "Violence against women and girls is a human rights violation and an appalling part of everyday life worldwide. It is encouraging that so many people in Frankfurt are showing solidarity and demanding the right to a life free of violence."
Gabriele Wenner, Head of the Women's Department, also emphasizes: "Violence against women has many faces - from harassment and domestic violence to femicide. We continue to fight against patriarchal structures and for women's equality."
Highlights of the program
Infoscreen campaign (19-25. November)
At highly frequented U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations such as Hauptbahnhof and Hauptwache, illustrations will be shown to draw attention to the issue of violence against women.
Banner "Respekt. Stop sexism." (November 22 - January 14, 2025)
Four large pink banners with messages such as "My no means no" hang on the Iron Bridge and send a visible signal against sexism.
The theater performance "NO MORE" (22. November, 6 pm)
In the Brotfabrik, the documentary play depicts the experiences of affected women and offers space for solidarity and reflection.
Rally and demonstration (25 November, from 5 pm)</x>. November, from 5 pm)
Under the motto "NO to all forms of violence against women and girls", a demonstration will take place at the Konstablerwache, organized by the Frankfurt Alliance for Women's Rights.
"Orange the World" (25. November, from 5 pm)
As part of the UN Women campaign, prominent buildings such as St. Paul's Church and the Alte Oper will be illuminated in orange to send a visible signal against violence.
Counseling services
Women and girls affected by violence can find support at various counseling centers and women's shelters in Frankfurt. These offer help in cases of sexual, domestic and digital violence, stalking and human trafficking.
Further information on the events and offers of help can be found on the website of the Women's Department and in the November Newsletter 2024. Frankfurt is thus sending a strong signal for an end to violence and for a society based on solidarity.
