"A Safe Oktoberfest for Girls and Women" –

a joint program by AMYNA, IMMA and the Women's Emergency/Crisis Center Munich in cooperation with the Hansel + Gretel Foundation

Against sexual violence - More safety for women and girls

With about seven million visitors the Oktoberfest in Munich is the world's largest fun-fair. The visitors are international and its popularity is extremely high. Tradition, food, drink and fun are the primary focus of the Oktoberfest which have a high priority in the communication between the organizer and the city leaders.

The dark side of the Oktoberfest is that women and girls are raped. In 2001 alone, 13 sexual assaults and rapes were reported. The estimated number of unknown cases accepted among experts is 10 to 20 times higher.

Sexual violence at the Oktoberfest is ignored or played down by the majority of society. Often, the responsibility for rape is placed on the girls and women.

According to statements by the police, these offences were lowered by 53 % from 2002 to 2003.

We see this as a big incentive to continue working at lowering the number of sexual assaults at the Oktoberfest.

An additional clear signal is necessary so that women and girls can enjoy themselves and feel safe at the Oktoberfest. A signal, that sexual violence is not accepted and that safety is guaranteed. That is our aim.