Germany's Bundestag expands rights for victims of violence

The German Bundestag has passed a law to expand the rights of victims of sexual and violent crimes by providing them with psychosocial process support. The legislation aims to improve access to professional, non-legal assistance, information, and support throughout the criminal proceedings.

Under the new law, victims of domestic violence will have a legal entitlement to this free support. While minors and particularly vulnerable adults have had access to such services since 2017, this measure expands the circle of eligible individuals. Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig stated that professional support can help victims find the courage to testify in court, particularly in difficult circumstances such as facing an ex-partner on the witness stand.

The law was supported by the CDU/CSU and SPD parliamentary groups, while the AfD voted against it. The Green Party abstained after an amendment they proposed was rejected.