Emergency services in Germany are grappling with an alarming rise in violence, warns the White Ring. Patrick Liesching, the organization's chairperson, expressed concern that every attack on these selfless heroes puts innocent lives at risk a second time. He emphasized the need for cooperative actions from politics and society to safeguard essential pillars of our community, including the emergency services and voluntary work.
The frequently evident aggression takes various forms – verbal abuse, threats, and even physical assaults like hitting, pushing, or spitting. Unsurprisingly, professional firefighters (75%) and voluntary emergency responders (over 50%) are disproportionately affected. Incidents escalate further during public events like New Year's Eve celebrations, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced security measures.
Despite the increasing crisis, studies on the root causes, such as perpetrator profiles and reporting behaviors, are limited. This lack of information hinders appropriate countermeasures that could better protect our frontline heroes.
Responding to this concern, innovative prevention strategies are being implemented. For example, bodycams and dashcams provide forensic evidence in the event of attacks, while police escorts increase the safety of smaller operations. The German Firefighters’ Association (DFV) is advocating for support from society and policymakers to address this issue head-on. Proposed legislative actions aim to tighten laws to protect emergency workers.
Enhancing our understanding of the issue involves standardized surveys by institutions like the DGUV’s Institute for Work and Health. Studies from California's Standardized Emergency Management System can be emulated, offering insights into unified reporting and coordination systems to improve emergency management. Fostering collaborative infrastructure amongst emergency services, trade unions, and stakeholders is essential for shaping a narrative and initiating change.
In order to create a unified national definition and reporting system for such incidents, legislative action may be required. Germany already has Emergency Acts regulating constitutional rights during emergencies, providing a potential framework for addressing this issue through law. However, specific initiatives to develop a comprehensive reporting system for violence against emergency responders need further exploration.
