Berlin Expands Support for Domestic Violence Victims with New Shelter
Berlin, February 23, 2026 – Berlin has expanded its network of support for victims of domestic violence with the inauguration of its ninth women’s and children’s shelter. Located in the southern part of the capital, the new facility, which cost approximately €2.5 million, provides a safe haven for 26 families across 10 apartments. Since mid-January, 18 women and 13 children have already found refuge there.
The shelter is operated by a member of the Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband Berlin (Parity Welfare Association Berlin). To ensure the safety and protection of its residents, the address of the facility remains confidential. On-site, social workers offer comprehensive psychosocial counseling, complemented by the services of a dedicated psychologist. Additionally, two educators provide essential educational support for the children residing in the shelter.
Implementing the Istanbul Convention: A Step Towards Comprehensive Protection
Cansel Kiziltepe, Senator for Social Affairs and Equality, emphasized the significance of the new shelter during its official opening. “With the new shelter, Berlin has created another place where women and children can live safely,” she stated. The facility specifically focuses on women with children, acknowledging that children typically constitute more than half of the residents in such shelters. Senator Kiziltepe highlighted that the new Violence Protection Act guarantees children an independent right to protection and counseling.
“With the ninth women’s shelter, Berlin is one step closer to fully implementing the Istanbul Convention,” Kiziltepe explained. The Istanbul Convention, ratified by Germany in 2018, mandates signatory states to take political and legal measures to prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence. According to the Convention’s guidelines, Berlin is required to provide a total of 390 family places, which must be available free of charge to affected women. Currently, the capital has 239 such family places, with additional provisions planned for this year to meet the stipulated quota.
Refuge Apartments and Increased Funding for Violence Protection
Beyond traditional shelters, Berlin also offers refuge apartments as an alternative housing option for women and their children. The Senate Administration reports an additional 154 family places available in these apartments. However, those seeking refuge in these apartments are typically responsible for financing their rent or providing proof of cost coverage.
The city’s commitment to combating domestic violence is further underscored by significant financial allocations. This year’s budget includes approximately €37.5 million for violence protection, incorporating federal funds, with a projected increase to €43.1 million for the upcoming year. Furthermore, the Berlin House of Representatives has earmarked a total of around €19.3 million for the creation and operation of new facilities for the years 2026 and 2027.
Alarming Statistics: The High Number of Unreported Cases of Domestic Violence
The urgency of these measures is highlighted by the persistent issue of domestic violence. The Istanbul Convention, which came into force in August 2014, aims to address this global challenge. According to figures from the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), over 187,000 female victims of domestic violence were registered nationwide in 2024. Experts caution that the actual number is likely much higher due to the significant underreporting of such cases.
In total, 265,942 individuals were affected by domestic violence, marking an unprecedented figure and a 3.7 percent increase compared to the previous year. Statistically, this translates to one person becoming a victim every two minutes. Data from 2023 indicates that 70.5 percent of these victims were female, underscoring the gendered nature of this pervasive issue.
The opening of Berlin’s ninth women’s and children’s shelter represents a crucial step in providing safety and support to those affected by domestic violence, reinforcing the city’s dedication to upholding the principles of the Istanbul Convention and protecting its most vulnerable residents.
Source: Press release from the Senate Department for Labor, Social Affairs, Equality, Integration, Diversity, and Anti-Discrimination
