Expert Council on Protection against Sexual Abuse and Experiences of Violence

The Expert Council on Protection against Sexual Abuse and Experiences of Violence was established in October 2024 by resolution of the German Bishops. It operates independently and is not subject to instructions from the German Bishops’ Conference. 

The Council consists of nine members: seven experts chosen by an independent selection commission and two representatives delegated by the Survivors’ Advisory Board. The members contribute broad interdisciplinary expertise and long-standing professional experience in the field of safeguarding against sexual abuse and other forms of violence. 

The Council’s statutory mandate is to monitor the structures and measures of the German Catholic (Arch)Dioceses in the areas of prevention and intervention regarding sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults, as well as other forms of violence. 

Its monitoring responsibilities include: 

• The annual preparation of an overall assessment of prevention and intervention measures 

• In-depth (qualitative) monitoring processes in selected (Arch)Dioceses each year 

• The formulation of recommendations for implementation and further development 

• The public dissemination of findings and recommendations 

To fulfil this mandate, the Council develops a binding reporting framework. The (Arch)Dioceses are required to provide data in a timely manner and support the Council in carrying out its tasks. On this basis, the Council prepares an interdiocesan annual report and issues evidence-based recommendations aimed at strengthening safeguarding structures in a sustainable manner. 

Institutional Context 

In recent years, several procedures and safeguarding measures have been introduced across all (Arch)Dioceses in Germany. These include revised framework regulations on prevention (2019) and updated intervention regulations (2022). 

The establishment of the Council represents a further development and consolidation of these measures. Its work is designed to ensure not only heightened awareness, but also consistent implementation and long-term institutional anchoring of safeguarding standards. Monitoring serves to promote accountability, transparency and a shared culture of attentiveness and responsibility. 

Mission and Principles 

The Council understands its work as methodologically rigorous, evidence-based and independent. Its aim is to improve prevention and intervention practices through systematic monitoring, professional expertise and constructive recommendations.