Women's and girls' rights in Germany

In Germany, women and men are equal before the law. This means that you have the right to live your life freely – without coercion and without discrimination. You decide for yourself if, when, and whom you want to marry, whether you want to have children, and how you want to raise them. Equally important is your right to express yourself freely, to live your culture and sexuality freely, and to develop your personality.

These rights are the result of many years of hard work by many women and some men who fought for equality and justice. Today, these rights protect you and give you the freedom to pursue your dreams and goals.

Protection from violence, harassment, and discrimination

Unfortunately, violence against women remains a serious issue—whether at home, at work, on the street, or on the internet. No one has the right to threaten you, touch you without your consent, demand sex, control you, or hurt you. This also applies to husbands, fathers, brothers, relatives, supervisors at work, or people in your social circle. Germany takes protection against violence very seriously: there are strict laws that prohibit violence and harassment and protect victims.

If you experience violence or are threatened, there are various places you can turn to for help:

• Police – In acute emergencies, dial 110.
• Victim protection and counseling centers in Brandenburg:
• Brandenburg Women's and Girls' Counseling Center: 03381 223360
• Violence against women helpline (nationwide, also multilingual): 08000 116 016
•  Counseling center against sexual violence in Brandenburg: 0331 2808303
• Women's shelters – There are women's shelters in Brandenburg that offer protection and safe accommodation.

It is important to know that seeking help will not get you into trouble, even if you have only recently arrived in Germany or are in the asylum process.

Your Rights in Work and Everyday Life

Equality also means equal opportunities in the workplace. You have the right to education, work, and equal pay for equal work. No one may disadvantage or discriminate against you because of your gender, and no one may prohibit you from being employed. If you need support with job searching, further training, or balancing family and work, there are many free counseling services available in Germany. Visit the job centers or other advisory services. We are happy to help you find the appropriate funding.

Health and Family Planning

Women have the right to comprehensive medical care and counseling – whether it concerns pregnancy care, obstetrics, contraception, or preventive examinations. In Germany, there are many specialized advisory services that can provide you with confidential information in your language.

If you have questions about contraception, pregnancy, or topics such as unwanted pregnancy or sexual health, we are here for you.

In Germany, there are numerous support services that assist women in difficult situations – free and confidential. These include:

• Women's counseling centers• Telephone hotlines

• Women's shelters and safe houses

• Self-help groups and cultural networks

These services help you when you have problems, but also to empower you and open up new perspectives.

How we support you at Albatros

At Albatros, we understand how difficult it can be to find your way in a new environment – especially if you have experienced violence or discrimination. That is why we offer you a respectful, approachable, safe, and trustworthy point of contact where you can receive advice in your native language. Our counseling is:

• Private and confidential – You decide what you want to share.

• Professional and respectful – We support you on an equal footing.

• Free of charge – There are no costs for you.

Whether you simply have questions, are seeking support, or need concrete help – we are here for you.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more or wish to seek advice, do not hesitate to contact us, write to us, or schedule an appointment directly on our website:Email: abb(at)albatrosggmbh(.)de

Or simply come by in person – we look forward to meeting you and supporting you.

 Watch our video now to get the key information about women's rights in Germany!