Saxony faces shortage of domestic violence shelters

Saxony is facing a significant shortage of shelter spaces for victims of domestic and sexualized violence. According to a parliamentary inquiry by Juliane Nagel, at least 306 women were turned away from the state's 17 protection houses last year due to lack of capacity.

In addition to these cases, 20 women seeking refuge from human trafficking and forced prostitution, as well as 50 men seeking shelter, were also denied placement. While family protection spaces increased from 168 to 180, the state remains below the requirements of the Istanbul Convention, which mandates 404 spaces for women based on Saxony's population.

Nagel criticized the state government for a hesitant response to growing violence. Although additional funds were secured for the 2025/2026 budget, the demand for protection continues to outpace available resources.