(de-news.net) – The German Federal Cabinet has endorsed a comprehensive draft bill designed to strengthen protection against domestic abuse. The initiative, introduced by Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD), grants family courts new powers to impose electronic ankle monitors on offenders and to mandate participation in structured social training programs, including anti-violence courses. In addition, victims may be provided with warning devices that alert them when perpetrators come within close proximity, thereby enhancing immediate personal safety.
Hubig emphasized that domestic abuse is “not fate” and insisted that the legal system must take stronger action to protect women and vulnerable individuals. She pointed to Spain’s experience since 2009, where authorities report that no murders have been committed by individuals subject to electronic monitoring. According to Hubig, the combination of behavioral instruction and technological surveillance can substantially reduce the risk of repeated assaults and create a more secure environment for victims.
The draft bill also introduces tougher sanctions for violations of protection orders. The maximum prison sentence will be raised from two to three years, signaling a clear intent to deter offenders more effectively. Furthermore, family courts will be granted access to the national firearms register, enabling them to conduct more thorough risk assessments in both custody disputes and protective proceedings. This measure is expected to improve judicial decision-making by ensuring that potential threats involving weapons are identified at an early stage.
The government has underscored the urgency of these reforms in light of rising rates of violence, particularly against women. Officials argue that the combination of electronic monitoring, mandatory training, stricter penalties, and enhanced access to firearms data represents a decisive step forward in combating domestic abuse. By integrating preventive technology with rehabilitative measures, the draft law aims not only to punish offenders but also to reduce recidivism and safeguard victims more effectively.
