New women's shelter opens in Berlin

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  To protect the women and their children, those affected are placed as far away as possible from their previous surroundings. (File photo)

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  The locations of the women's shelters remain confidential. (File photo)

A new women’s shelter with space for 16 families has opened in Berlin. The shelter has a total of 46 beds for women and their children, according to the Department of Social Services. The first residents have been able to move in with their children over the past few days. The shelter is operated by the Berlin City Mission. The address is being kept confidential for security reasons.

With the opening of this new facility, there are now ten women’s shelters in Berlin. In total, the capital now has space for 419 families in women’s shelters and safe houses, which amounts to 921 beds for women and children. According to city officials, an eleventh shelter is scheduled to open in September.

New women's shelters: Berlin's support system is being expanded

"Women affected by violence can count on us to help them," said Cansel Kiziltepe, Senator for Social Affairs. The Violence Assistance Act provides a clear mandate that every woman affected by violence receive protection and support quickly and reliably. "With the opening of a total of three new women’s shelters and two additional specialized counseling centers this year, we are continuing to expand Berlin’s support system for women." A new women's and children’s shelter had already opened in January.

High number of unreported cases of violence against women

According to police and Senate data, there were more than 13,000 victims of domestic violence in 2025. A total of 8,652 crimes against sexual autonomy were recorded, along with nearly 1,400 rapes. The police assume that the actual number of cases is much higher because many women who experience violence from their husbands or partners do not come forward and choose not to file a report. 

45 million euros for protection against violence and support

Berlin is spending more than 45 million euros this year on violence prevention and support for women. By 2027, that figure is expected to reach 53.5 million euros, 10 million euros of which will come from the federal government. One of the new women’s shelters, with about 50 beds, costs around 1.5 million euros per year.