Everything you need to know about xenophobia (Fremdenfeindlichkeit) and emergency numbers in case of an attack in Germany

Xenophobia (Fremdenfeindlichkeit) is one of the most dangerous forms of discrimination and social violence, and it directly threatens democracy and peaceful coexistence in Germany. With increasing migration and cultural diversity, waves of hostility have unfortunately emerged against people with foreign backgrounds – including migrants, refugees and even German citizens with migrant roots.

What is xenophobia?

Xenophobia refers to:

• Rejecting or hating people simply because they belong to a different culture or nationality

• Hostile or violent behaviour, verbally or physically

• Inciting discrimination and violence against them in everyday life or online

Examples of xenophobia

• Racist insults in the street or at work

• Physical attacks because of appearance, skin colour or foreign accent

• Graffiti or vandalism targeting property owned by foreigners

• Refusal to provide services or allow access to certain public places

Legal framework in Germany

Basic Law (Grundgesetz – GG)

• Article 1: Human dignity is inviolable and must be respected and protected.

• Article 3: No one may be discriminated against because of origin, race, religion or belief.

Criminal Code (Strafgesetzbuch – StGB)

• § 130 – Incitement to hatred (Volksverhetzung)
  Punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment or a fine for inciting hatred against parts of the population or calling for violence against them.

• § 223 ff. – Bodily harm
  Sanctions range from fines to imprisonment, up to 10 years in cases of serious bodily injury.

Emergency numbers in case of an attack

• 110: Police – for all urgent situations such as physical attacks, threats or immediate danger

• 112: Ambulance / medical emergency – if there are injuries or acute medical needs

Local counselling centres also offer extra helplines, e.g. for victims of violence or discrimination.

What to do if you are attacked

1. Call the police immediately (110)

   • Give the exact location of the incident

   • Describe the number and appearance of the attackers as far as possible

   • Ask for medical assistance if needed

2. Do not respond with violence

   • Try to move away from danger and protect yourself

   • Wait for the police in the safest possible place

3. Document the incident

   • Take photos or videos if possible without endangering yourself

   • Collect names and contact details of witnesses if you can

4. File an official report

   • Go to the nearest police station to file a criminal complaint

   • Keep a copy of the report or the reference number for follow-up

5. Seek psychological and legal support

   • Contact specialised counselling centres such as the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency (Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes)

   • Get help from migrant organisations, refugee support groups and anti-racism initiatives

Role of society and institutions

• Organising awareness workshops in schools and workplaces against xenophobia

• Running media and public campaigns that promote tolerance, diversity and respect

• Providing legal and psychological support to victims and encouraging them to speak up

Additional support

• Free anti-discrimination advice hotline: 0800 546 546 5

• Regional hotlines for migrants and refugees (vary from state to state)

Conclusion

Xenophobia is a danger to the whole society, not only to those directly targeted. Confronting it is a shared responsibility: it begins with refusing to remain silent, reporting incidents and supporting victims – and leads towards a society where every person’s dignity is respected, regardless of origin or background.

Key German terms

• Fremdenfeindlichkeit: xenophobia / hatred of foreigners

• Grundgesetz (GG): German Basic Law / constitution

• Volksverhetzung: incitement to hatred

• Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes: Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency

• Notrufnummer 110: police emergency number

The editorial team strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, occasional errors or incomplete information cannot be ruled out entirely. The content is intended as initial guidance; for binding, up-to-date information, please always consult the competent authorities and professional advisory services.