Stalking in Saarland: Urgent need for action to protect victims

Stalking in Saarland: Urgent need for action to protect victims

The number of stalking cases is increasing alarmingly in Saarland. According to current reporting, a total of 37 cases of stalking were recorded last year, an increase of around 60 percent compared to 2022. This worrying development is not just a number, but has serious implications for the lives of those affected. The majority of cases involve physical violence, indicating a worrying link between stalking and physical aggression.

The situation is particularly worrying because around 90 percent of those affected experience physical violence. In four cases of the registered stalking incidents, particularly serious forms of stalking occurred, in which the lives of the victims or their relatives were in danger. In order to understand what stalking actually means, you have to know that it is unauthorized stalking, which can significantly affect the life of those affected, as described in Section 238 of the Criminal Code (StGB).

Women are the main victims

According to the victim protection organization Weißer Ring, women are particularly affected by stalking. In recent years, female victims account for more than 80 percent of cases. Roland Theis, the state chairman of the White Ring, describes stalking as an everyday occurrence that often results in physical violence or even homicide. The psychological and social consequences for the victims are serious, including a massive reduction in their quality of life. Many affected people feel forced to avoid their usual places in order not to encounter the person stalking them.

The forms of stalking have evolved in recent years, particularly through digital technologies. Cyberstalking, in which perpetrators harass or spy on their victims online, is a growing problem. This means an increasing burden for those affected, as they can no longer only be tracked in the physical world, but also in the digital space. Theis emphasizes that many victims constantly suffer from this burden.

Calls for more protective measures

In view of this dangerous situation, the White Ring is calling for increased measures to protect the victims. Particularly in the case of stalking, it is crucial that pre-existing signs are taken seriously. Among other things, the White Ring is aiming to introduce electronic ankle bracelets to enable better monitoring of perpetrators. One area where this is already being implemented successfully is Spain, where the police are automatically alerted if a ban is violated.

In the political landscape, the CDU has also made a move in this direction, but its proposals have so far been unsuccessful. For the next state parliament session in December, the parliamentary group has again requested the introduction of electronic ankle bracelets for violent criminals. Anja Wagner-Scheid, the deputy parliamentary group leader, emphasizes the need for quick action in the area of ​​protection against violence.

But what can women do who are affected by stalking and violence? There are various contact points that offer support. The Saarland women's emergency hotline, for example, is a hotline that offers help to women in emergency situations. In addition, the Catholic women's social service and specialized organizations such as Aldona are also important contact points for migrant women. More information about help offers in Saarland can be found on the SR website.