University of Stuttgart joins the UN campaign "STOP violence against women"

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the University of Stuttgart is once again taking part in the global UN campaign “Orange the World”. A visible sign of this commitment is the orange flag bearing the words “STOP violence against women”, which will be raised on the Stadtmitte campus. In addition, a workshop on the topic of domestic violence will be held.

In 2025, the campaign runs from 25 November to 10 December under the motto “End digital violence against all women and girls”. The colour orange, which gives the campaign its title, symbolises hope and a future in which violence – whether offline or online – has no place. Together with the global movement, the University of Stuttgart calls on everyone to actively stand up against all forms of violence with knowledge, conviction and solidarity.

Digital violence as a growing threat

This year, the focus is on the growing threat of digital violence – from cyberstalking and hate speech to the unauthorised sharing of private recordings.

The University of Stuttgart supports the call for

• clear legal regulations that punish digital violence,

• safer online platforms, and

• better support for those affected.

As part of the campaign, people are called upon to take responsibility and to take a stand in their everyday lives – both online and offline.

Gender stereotypes and their consequences

Digital violence is not an isolated phenomenon, but closely linked to deeply rooted gender stereotypes that continue to be effective in Europe. It is crucial that politics and society acknowledge the extent to which these role models shape and limit the lives of women and girls in particular.

According to the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), rigid gender roles – such as assigning care, family responsibilities and emotional labour primarily to women – continue to hinder access to leadership positions and restrict economic participation. Their impact extends into the digital sphere, where women are disproportionately exposed to attacks and hate messages. Gender stereotypes thus obstruct equality and weaken social cohesion.

• Helpline “Violence against women” | by phone around the clock at 08000 116 016 | via the website also online counselling or by chat or e-mail | available in 18 languages as well as in German Sign Language.
• Victim support organisations such as WEISSER RING e.V. | by phone daily from 7 am to 10 pm at 116 006 | via the website also online counselling or by e-mail | multilingual as well as in German Sign Language.
• Women’s counselling centres and women’s shelters offer protection and support. Together with and for those affected, an individual safety plan can be developed there. In addition, legal and psychological counselling is provided, as well as assistance in finding a place in a women’s shelter. (www.frauenhauskoordinierung.de)
• Children who are in acute danger can contact the children’s and young people’s helpline “Nummer gegen Kummer” at 116 111. The number is available Monday to Saturday from 2 pm to 8 pm. Further support is offered by regional child protection services, the German Child Protection League (Deutscher Kinderschutzbund) and online counselling for young people at www.youth-life-line.de.
• A free e-learning programme provided by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) offers comprehensive practical knowledge for those who wish to support and care for people affected by violence and their children.
• In situations of acute danger, you can also contact the police at any time: call the emergency number 110! The police will do everything necessary to protect you and those affected. Further information is available at https://www.polizei-beratung.de/opferinformationen/haeusliche-gewalt/.