“Today would be different”
Updated on November 30, 2024, 9:47 am
Friedrich Merz
Friedrich Merz has changed his mind about reforming the issue of marital rape. (archive photo)
© photo alliance / Anadolu/Halil Sagirkaya
Years ago there was talk of reforming the laws on forced marriage. Friedrich Merz voted against it at the time. How he feels about it today.
Union Candidate for Chancellor
He was referring to his much-criticised decision to vote against a bill in 1997 that would have added forced marriage to the criminal code.
Merz: “About half of the Union group saw it the way I did”
Rape is always punishable as coercion and serious bodily harm, Merz said. He never voted against criminalizing marital rape, but for a complaint clause that would have allowed victims to prevent prosecution. “I voted for a solution like this more than 25 years ago. About half of the Union group saw it the same way I did. Others saw it differently – and in retrospect they were right .”
The president of the CDU wants to enter the Bundestag for Hochsauerland in the new elections on February 23. The one who is there CDU will vote on his direct application on Saturday. (dpa/edited by ari)
Offers of assistance
- If you are affected by domestic or sexual violence, please call the “Violence against Women” helpline (116 016 or online), the “Violence against Men” helpline (0800/1239900 or online). Lantana, 031/3131 400)
- If you suspect or even know of sexual violence against third parties, contact any police station directly.
- If you have noticed pedophilic tendencies in yourself or others, contact us “Don’t Be a Doer” Prevention Network.
- Monitor contact points for various emergency situations available here.
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2024-11-30 18:04:00
#Merz #regrets #political #decision
## Interview: Revisiting Friedrich Merz’s Stance on Marital Rape Reform
**World Today News Exclusive:**CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz recently revealed a shift in his stance on marital rape reform, admitting he would vote differently today than he did in 1997. We spoke to Dr. anna Schmitt, a leading expert on human rights and gender-based violence, to analyze the implications of Merz’s statement and its significance for the ongoing debate.
**World Today News:** Dr. Schmitt, Friedrich Merz recently stated he would have voted differently on marital rape reform, expressing remorse for his 1997 vote against criminalizing forced marriage. What are your thoughts on this shift in his position?
**Dr. Schmitt:** Merz’s admission is significant, signifying a belated but crucial acknowledgement of the flaws in his previous stance.His 1997 vote against criminalizing forced marriage reflected a troubling societal perception that marital rape was somehow acceptable or less harmful than other forms of sexual assault. It’s encouraging to see Merz acknowledging the error of that viewpoint.
**World Today News:** what are the potential implications of Merz’s statement for the ongoing debate surrounding marital rape reform?
**Dr. Schmitt:**
Merz’s public recognition of his previous mistake could potentially spark broader discussions and introspection within the CDU and German society as a whole. It could encourage a more open and honest dialog on the reality of marital rape and the need for complete legal protections for survivors. this could ultimately lead to a renewed push for legislative reform that recognizes forced marriage as a serious crime deserving of stringent punishment.
**World Today News:** Some critics argue that Merz’s statement is merely a political manoeuvre to appease voters ahead of the upcoming elections. Do you agree?
**Dr.schmitt:** It is indeed always possible that political considerations are at play. Though, I beleive it’s crucial to assess the content of Merz’s statement and recognize its potential to contribute positively to a crucial debate. It’s crucial to encourage
openness and honesty about past mistakes and to acknowledge the evolving understanding of gender-based violence.
**World today News:** What further steps can be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of survivors of marital rape?
**Dr. Schmitt:** Beyond legislative reform,a multifaceted approach is essential. This includes providing comprehensive support services for survivors, raising public awareness about the prevalence and impact of marital rape,
and developing effective educational programs to challenge harmful gender norms and promote healthy relationships.
**World Today news:** Thank you for your insights, dr. Schmitt.
**Note:** This interview is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
