In many countries, women have the same legal rights as men. But in everyday life, things often look different. Even in Germany, there are still many areas in which women are disadvantaged - for example in politics, at work or when it comes to violence. But there are laws that protect women. And there are many places you can turn to if you need help.
Women in politics and work
According to the Equal Treatment Act, women and men have equal rights in Germany. Nevertheless Fewer women in management positions or in politics - even though they are often just as well or even better educated.
Since 2015, there has been a law that obliges large companies, More women in management positions to bring. In politics, too, many parties work with so-called Quotas for womento get more women into important offices.
Tip: If you feel disadvantaged because of your gender, you can contact the Anti-discrimination office contact: 030 - 18555 1855 or www.antidiskriminierungsstelle.de
Wages, unpaid work and equality
Women in Germany often earn less than men - even if they do the same work. In addition, many women also take on Household, raising children or careoften without payment.
Once a year there is the Equal Pay Day - This day is intended to draw attention to the fact that women are often paid less.
Tip: If you want to work Learn German an important step. There are special Courses for women or parentsfor example from the BAMF. You can find advice centers near you on bamf.de or stark-im-beruf.de.
Right to abortion
If you are unintentionally pregnant, you can terminate the pregnancy in Germany under certain conditions. This is possible in the first 12 weeks - but only after a Consulting.
Help hotline "Pregnant women in need": 0800 40 40 020
Advice centers: www.familienplanung.de
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is prohibited
The female genital mutilation is in Germany prohibited and punishable - even if it was performed abroad ("vacation circumcision").
There is medical help and the possibility of having the clitoris surgically restored - e.g. in the Desert Flower Center in Berlin.
Help hotline for FGM: 08000 11 60 16 (around the clock, multilingual)
Women-specific reasons for fleeing
Some women flee because of violence, forced marriage or genital mutilation. This is called Persecution specific to women. Unfortunately, this is not always recognized in the asylum procedure.
You can apply to the BAMF Female hearing officer and interpreter ask for help. Get help from an advice center or a lawyer beforehand - e.g. via proasyl.de.
Child marriage and forced marriage
In Germany, you may only use Marry at the age of 18. Marriages with minors are prohibited or will be dissolved by the court.
Also Forced marriages - i.e. weddings without consent - are punishable.
You can get help from Forced marriage crisis hotline:
0800 06 67 888 or zwangsheirat@kargah.de
Sexual harassment, coercion and rape
Sexual violence is punishable in Germany - no matter who the perpetrator is (stranger, partner, boss ...).
These include:
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unwanted touching
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insulting remarks
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Compulsion to perform sexual acts
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Rape
You can go to the Police go or you get anonymous advice - e.g. at the helpline or a women's advice center.
Many women are afraid or ashamed - that's understandable. But: You are not to blame. You have a right to help!
