Germany opens dedicated shelter for male victims of domestic violence

Darmstadt, Germany, has launched a new initiative to support men experiencing domestic violence. A dedicated shelter, part of a pilot project in the state of Hesse, now offers a safe haven for male victims.

The facility provides two single rooms for men and an additional room for two children. Social-pedagogical support is available to help residents stabilize, find peace, and gather strength for a new beginning. Boris von Heesen from the Flexible Youth Help association, which is managing the pilot project, stated that the goal is to offer comprehensive assistance.

This new shelter addresses a significant, though often overlooked, aspect of domestic violence. According to the 2024 report on domestic violence by the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), nearly 30 percent of recorded victims were men. While women constitute the majority of victims of partner or family violence, the existence of this specialized housing acknowledges the needs of male survivors.

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According to the concept, up to two men will be accompanied by social pedagogues in the apartment to stabilize, find peace and gather strength for a new start.