ARD, 2019, 45 minutes
Violence in partnerships, especially against women, is still an everyday occurrence in Germany. Every third day a man even kills his wife or ex-wife – often because she wants to leave him or has already left him. A large part of the domestic violence never comes to light: out of shame, out of fear, because of the children – and also because there is a lack of outside support.
Petra put up with her abusive husband for 14 years, fearing for her children, until she finally managed to flee to the women's shelter. "The women's shelter was my last resort." There are 350 women's shelters in Germany with space for 6,700 women and their children. According to scientists, however, there should be at least twice as many. It took a lot for Daniela to get help and report her ex-partner. He repeatedly beat, choked and insulted her. "Going to the police and then to court were the most difficult hurdles, because will they believe me?"
Two victims accuse: The perpetrators, the state, but also the whole of society. What needs to change in all our minds in order to combat violence against women in partnerships more effectively?