Sexual misconduct: The Bundeswehr has a structural problem

Comment Sexual Misconduct The Bundeswehr has a structural problem As of: November 11, 2026 • 5:54 p.m

Verbal harassment, unwanted touching and physical attacks: A systematic survey makes the extent of sexualized misconduct in the Bundeswehr visible for the first time. That's good - but the announced consequences are not enough.

The paratrooper scandal in Zweibrücken, the alleged attacks in Weißenfels: just two examples of something going wrong in the Bundeswehr. The number of suspicious activity reports is increasing and increasing. And for a long time you have had the feeling that there could be more. Much more. The study turns what had been a hunch into certainty: the Bundeswehr has a structural problem with sexualized misconduct. And it is high time to say this openly.

Of the female soldiers who took part in the survey, more than 70 percent had experienced verbal misconduct, for example offensive comments. Almost 40 percent report inappropriate touching. And one in ten soldiers say they have already been a victim of sexual violence. Every tenth!

The Defense Minister once again emphasizes: "There is zero tolerance for sexual misconduct in the Bundeswehr." And that is certainly more than just lip service. But: Boris Pistorius only sees a systemic problem in the current reporting procedures, which, according to the study, lack trust. He's right to want to go there. But the problem lies deeper.

One thing is clear: the Bundeswehr must be organized hierarchically in order to function. However, strict command structures are susceptible to abuse of power. The troupe is no exception. Misunderstood esprit de corps, sometimes bizarre admission rituals and the physical proximity in the barracks: such structural factors encourage attacks. This has to be clearly stated - so that it gets better.

And now? The Bundeswehr has set up an advice center that will soon be available by telephone around the clock. Sexual misconduct will be discussed more strongly in training and further education in the future. And how superiors deal with such cases - this should be taken into account when assessing personnel in the future. All right. But more is needed: far too often important information gets lost. As a reminder: After the first indications in autumn 2024, it took a year until the incidents in Zweibrücken came to light.

It stands to reason that a lack of trust in the reporting process also played a role here. A new hotline will do little to change this. What is needed is an external reporting point that those affected can contact - and that can investigate specific cases with an outside perspective, not just advise them. That would be an important step in making the Bundeswehr a truly safe place. Also for women.

This topic in the program: BR24 Radio | News | 11/11/2026 | 5:21 p.m