Commission has been involved in drafting a report on the current state within the Community.

The City of Gießen has launched a new project aimed at providing support for victims of sexual violence. Known as "Medical Immediate Help After Sexual Assault," this initiative is part of a larger project initiated by the Frankfurt Women's Emergency Call e.V.

At the heart of this project is the Institute of Legal Medicine at Justus Liebig University Gießen, which coordinates medical emergency care after sexual abuse. The University Clinics of Gießen and Marburg, and the Forensic Institute at the Institute of Legal Medicine, are responsible for the medical care and evidence collection.

Victims can choose to anonymously have evidence collected as part of their medical care. This evidence will be stored for a year before being handed over to the police, only when a report is filed. It's important to note that this project maintains strict confidentiality, neither the hospital nor a counseling center can file a report against the victim's will.

The intervention centre against domestic violence of SKF e.V., Pro Familia Gießen e.V., Gießen Help e.V., and Wildwasser are providing psychological and social care for victims. The Women's and Equal Opportunities Offices of the City of Gießen are leading this project, ensuring that victims receive the necessary support.

The Hessian Ministry of Labour, Integration, Youth & Social Affairs is supporting the "Medical Immediate Help After Sexual Assault" campaign. The pharmacy at Ludwigsplatz is also cooperating, providing medication as needed.

Starting in September, the city bus in Gießen will be adorned with posters informing about this project. The aim of these actions is to raise awareness that sexual violence is never the victim's fault.

The campaign will take further actions during the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in November. Gießen is one of the 14 model cities in Hesse participating in this project.

It's crucial to remember that clothing, appearance, or behaviour are not determining factors in sexual violence. The responsibility for sexual violence always lies with the perpetrator. The anonymous evidence collection in the project allows victims to create some distance before possibly filing a report with the support of a trusted person.

This project is a significant step towards providing comprehensive care and support for victims of sexual violence in Gießen. It underscores the city's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.