Event Day  „Stalking - Violence in the shadows“ on 27 November 2025 from 12am-4pm

Stalking – persistently following, harassing and controlling a person – is much more than just discomfort. It is a form of psychological violence that leaves deep scars and, in the worst cases, can lead to physical assault. Victims no longer feel safe and free in their own lives, but are confronted with fear, pressure and uncertainty around the clock. The feeling of being constantly watched robs them of their self-determination and freedom.

Prevention is a key component in dealing with stalking. This includes, above all, education: only those who know what stalking looks like can recognise it and intervene. It is also important that victims are encouraged not to remain silent, but to contact the police, counselling centres or their personal support network. Stalking is not a private matter – it is a criminal offence.

The event offers first-hand insights: Tanja Kramper, Mannheim Police Headquarters, will talk about the different forms of stalking, the extent of stalking in everyday police work and the typical dynamics between perpetrators and victims. She will explain how victims can get support, what police measures are available and which contact points are available.

Inken Schall and Johannes Lenk, District Association for Social Justice Mannheim, will report on their daily counselling work. They accompany victims of stalking in difficult life situations and point out concrete support options. At the same time, they provide insight into their work with perpetrators, which focuses on recognising and breaking patterns of violence.

Sabrina Sengle, Sandra Reitz and Kathrin Exner from BIOS-BW will provide insights into the work of the trauma clinic for victims of violent and sexual crimes. They will show how therapeutic support and legal advice can go hand in hand from a legal, psychotherapeutic and organisational perspective.

With this event, the gender equality activists at UMM Mannheim are sending a clear message: violence against women – in whatever form – must not be tolerated. Our goal is to create spaces for information, exchange and solidarity. We want to empower those affected and help ensure that their voices are heard.

Everybody who's interested is invited to attend the event day ‘Stalking – Violence in the Shadows’ at UMM Mannheim on 27 November.

There is no charge for participation. Participation in the event day is possible in person (UMM clinic campus, Building 12, Lecture Hall 5) or online.

In-person participants should register in advance. However, we also welcome last-minute participants without registration!

Online participants only need to activate the participation link (see below); prior registration is not necessary.