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Domestic violence in focus: women's shelter as a place of refuge since 1995
Ursula Dippold talks about domestic violence and the protection of women in the Parchim women's shelter. Current statistics and challenges.
Domestic violence in focus: women's shelter as a place of refuge since 1995
In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, domestic violence is an issue that unfortunately affects many people. Women in particular are often the focus of these violent acts. Ursula Dippold, the former head of the women's shelter in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district, discusses the various facets of domestic violence in a recent conversation and illustrates the urgency of the topic. The region's first and only women's shelter was opened in 1995 and has now provided a safe haven for numerous women and children. This facility, which is run by the AWO Ludwigslust district association, is vital for all those who want to start a new life due to violence.
Domestic violence occurs in all social classes. Women are often the ones who suffer. According to Dippold, men are not only physically stronger, they are often the main breadwinners, which makes women economically dependent. This dynamic leaves many women trapped in abusive relationships. However, the financial and practical support offers are often not sufficiently taken advantage of. The women's shelter offers space for 15 women who find time here in a protected environment to think about their future.
A look at the statistics
The numbers of those affected by violence are alarming. Loud bmbfsfj.de Every third woman has been a victim of physical or sexual violence at least once in her life. Women with disabilities are particularly affected, as they experience violence two to three times more often than the population average. In 2024, 171,069 people in Germany were victims of intimate partner violence, 79.3% of whom were women. These frightening numbers underscore the need to talk about the issue and take action.
Another worrying trend is the rise in digital violence. Perpetrators use the Internet to control and intimidate their victims. Over 17,000 cases of digital violence were reported in 2023, but the number of unreported cases is probably much higher. Social networks are increasingly being used as platforms for stalking and harassment, further endangering the lives of many women.
Help and support
The women's shelter in Ludwigslust not only offers a safe place, but also necessary medical care and psychosocial support. Many women seeking refuge are not aware that they are entitled to various forms of assistance. A stay in a women's shelter can serve as a springboard to a life free of violence, even if it is often not easy to leave toxic relationships behind. Dippold reports that the time in the women's shelter enables the women to regain their ability to act and develop new perspectives.
It is important that those affected know that they are not alone. Help is available and can be the first step towards a better future. The topic of domestic violence must continue to be removed from taboos so that as many women and men as possible who are affected find the courage to seek help.
Overall, it shows that domestic violence is a complex problem that affects everyone. As Ursula Dippold puts it: Domestic violence begins where you should feel safe. Let's not let it get to that point, but instead stand up for the rights and protection of all those affected.