Vigil in Osnabrück: Mourning for those killed and demand for protection for women

Vigil in Osnabrück: Mourning for those killed and demand for protection for women

In a tragic incident, a 43-year-old woman was shot by her ex-partner in the Schinkel district of Osnabrück on June 25, 2025. After the crime, the 41-year-old alleged perpetrator took his own life. Both left behind three children who are now left without their parents. These terrible events have caused consternation in the region.

Politics and the community are affected. Members of the Schinkel SPD local association are calling for consistent protection for women, more education and political responsibility in the fight against violence. Bundestag member Filiz Polat from the Greens has also called for political consequences with regard to structural violence against women. A vigil for those killed and all women affected by violence is planned for Thursday afternoon in front of the Osnabrück Theater. The community is mobilizing to take a stand against violence.

Background on femicide

The term femicide refers to the killing of women because of their gender and is often motivated by hierarchical gender relations. Such acts can take place both in (ex-)partnerships and outside of them. According to an investigation by the Federal Criminal Police Office, 155 women were killed by their (ex-)partners in Germany in 2023, which highlights the urgent need to arm oneself against such violence. In addition, there is no uniform definition of femicide, which further complicates the issue Federal Agency for Civic Education turns out.

As the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency emphasizes, femicides and violence against women are a problem for society as a whole that affects all parts of the population. It is crucial to reflect on the causes and social responsibility in order to effectively counteract such violence. Violence against women can take many forms, be it psychological, physical or economic. The increase in such cases, which the BKA has documented, is particularly alarming.

Initiatives and actions to support

A neighbor and CDU council member has already started a fundraising campaign for the underage children of those killed in order to help them during this difficult time. The planned vigil will be another sign of solidarity and commitment to a non-violent future. Everyone is invited to come together to commemorate the victims of violence and to work towards treating each other with respect.

The developments of the last few days show once again that the issue of violence against women is not just an individual problem, but a social problem that must be addressed decisively. Politicians are called upon to rethink the structures and take comprehensive measures to protect women in order to prevent such tragedies in the future. The Federal Foundation for Equality also pointed out that it is time to take the dangers seriously and take preventive action.

It remains to be hoped that this terrible act will not only cause sadness, but also a profound change in how violence against women is dealt with.