Wandsbek fights for safety: Hearing on safe space for queers

Wandsbek fights for safety: Hearing on safe space for queers

Something is happening for the queer community in Hamburg's Wandsbek district: The Committee for Social Affairs has launched a public hearing to discuss the need for a “safe space” for queer people. How hamburg.de reports, all interested citizens are cordially invited to take part in this process. The hearing will take place on January 12, 2026 in the Wandsbek Citizens' Hall and aims to clarify the optimal framework conditions for this protected space.

But why is such a space so important? Despite the increasing acceptance of queer people, we are seeing a worrying increase in hostility and violence. The numbers are alarming: According to the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), there were a total of 1,785 documentations of crimes against LGBTIQ* in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of 50% compared to the previous year. In keeping with this, the situation in Hamburg is equally critical: in 2023, 98 anti-queer crimes were registered here, which means an increase of 56% compared to 2022.

Need for a protected space

The Wandsbek district assembly has already discussed the challenges that queer people face during “Pride Week”. The Wandsbek coalition, consisting of the SPD, Greens and FDP, has taken on the issue and is committed to the “Safe Space” as a meeting place and retreat for LGBTQIA+ people. Conny Poltersdorf from the Green Party emphasizes that such a space contributes to psychological stability and promotes visibility and self-determination.

To date, shelters for queer people have often only been available in central parts of Hamburg, while many of those affected feel unsafe in public spaces and in their own environment. Older and younger generations in particular often do not have the support they need to strengthen themselves. The need for a protected space is therefore great - a finding that is also supported by current studies.

A step in the right direction

Visitors to the hearing will be able to contribute their ideas and needs, and there will be an opportunity to hear from experts from various fields. This is of great importance in order to examine the optimal framework conditions for the safe space and adapt the concept accordingly. This is to ensure that the space meets the demands and needs of the queer community.

The rise in hate crime is not an isolated problem, but reflects a challenge across society. The widespread expression of homophobia and transphobia not only affects the personal well-being of those affected, but also their willingness to report incidents - for example because of fear of further discrimination. The BKA's dark field study shows that an overwhelming majority of LGBTIQ* in Germany experience discrimination, which around 96% of those surveyed described as hate speech and 87% as physical or sexual assault. Many choose not to report incidents because they do not consider them serious enough or because they fear the police response.

The BKA's crime prevention program has already initiated various measures to create a safe environment for everyone. With the creation of a safe space in Wandsbek, another significant step could be taken in the right direction to reduce anti-queer attacks and promote an inclusive society.