Pistorius insists on “zero tolerance” for sexual misconduct in the Bundeswehr

A so-called dark field study shows: Sexual misconduct occurs more frequently in the Bundeswehr than official reporting figures show. In view of the results of the study, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced a more decisive approach and emphasized: "Zero tolerance is the line."

Pistorius said it was the first study of its kind. And he was aware that it would reveal “unpleasant truths”. But “politics begins with looking at reality.” And the fight against cases of such misconduct is “about nothing less than respect for human dignity” in accordance with the Basic Law. And beyond that, it's also about the troops' readiness for action.

External advice center set up

Pistorius announced an action plan that will include a total of 34 measures to take more decisive action against sexual misconduct in the force. In the future, members of the force should be better informed about reporting channels and offers of help. Because there is often a lack of knowledge about existing reporting channels. Pistorius referred to the new HELP advice center, which started work at the beginning of November and - once it is fully staffed - will be a contact point for those affected around the clock, seven days a week.

Pistorius emphasized that the advice center was outside the hierarchy of the Bundeswehr. The Greens had already pushed for such external reporting points before the unreported study was officially announced. “I think very few women can go through a week without receiving a saying that is also a form of sexualized verbal violence,” said Sara Nanni in the joint ARD and ZDF morning magazine. Those affected should be given the opportunity to contact external reporting points outside the force in the event of incidents. This means they don’t have to report directly to their superiors.

Dealing with cases as an aspect in assessments

In addition to expanding prevention and offers of help, Pistorius also said that the handling of reported cases should also have an influence on opportunities for advancement within the force in the future. This point should also be explicitly taken into account in future assessments of superiors. “Anyone who is not a role model, even tolerates misconduct or does not deal with it consistently will no longer have a leadership role,” emphasized the Defense Minister.

In addition, a separate investigative group should be set up to provide support “directly on site”. And the current dark field study will not be the last, the SPD politician assured, "we will continue to research and ask."