Violence in the Jobcenter: Employees do not report perpetrators for fear of retaliation
Employees at workplaces in Germany are increasingly subjected to insults, threats, and violent attacks. According to research by FOCUS online, many workers choose not to file criminal complaints against the perpetrators for fear of retaliation.
For example, in Jena, Thuringia, an employee received a threatening email after financial aid was cut. The agency head, Enrico Vogel, was described as a "dirty pig," and the subject of the message was: "death by hanging." Vogel stated that such threats have become almost daily, unlike what it was ten years ago.
Incidents are increasing across Germany. In Gelsenkirchen, 44 cases of threats and insults were recorded by mid-November, a 16% increase from the previous year. Authorities issued 21 entry bans, sent 24 warning letters, and called the police twice. Vandalism has also been reported, including the destruction of doors, graffiti on walls, and urination in elevators.
Many employees avoid filing criminal complaints because perpetrators may obtain their personal addresses through case files, exposing victims to the risk of retaliation. German law provides exceptions in cases where there is a justified fear for the witness's safety, but the fear persists, leaving perpetrators largely unpunished.
The spokesperson for the Work Center, Anke Schurman-Rob, highlighted the pressures faced by clients, from financial problems to bureaucratic difficulties, which can increase aggression. Preventive measures are being implemented, including training in conflict de-escalation, improving workplace security, and using official vehicles discreetly to protect employees. Despite these efforts, a climate of fear remains evident, as shown by the recent attack that caused an estimated 100,000 euros in damage to the Work Center in Jera and the neighboring offices.