Collien Ulmen-Fernandes calls for change following protests against digital violence

Actress and presenter Collien Ulmen-Fernandes is calling for lasting societal change following demonstrations against digital violence against women in several German cities. She expressed hope that the public protests represent more than a fleeting event and urged that the issue be taken seriously until real progress is achieved.

Fernandes noted that the reactions to her own case were alarming, observing that many men appear to have an intense fear of being falsely accused. She stated that this fear often leads men to reflexively claim ‘it is not all men’ rather than engaging with the lived experiences of women. She also reported that some men have labeled feminist women as ‘man-haters’ in an attempt to avoid addressing the alleged actions.

To women affected by domestic or digital violence, Fernandes advises seeking support through self-help groups and speaking out. She emphasized that telling the truth is a vital first step, noting that victims will often find that their experiences follow strikingly similar patterns.