Authorities in Bremen have included inducing vomiting as a self-defense technique in workplace safety seminars for over a decade. Franka Haedke, a police spokeswoman, stated that the method is one of several options to disrupt an attacker's actions. Seminar participants are taught to trigger a gag reflex by placing a finger down the throat, which is intended to create disgust and halt the assault. These sessions, held at various workplaces and public institutions, also cover topics like recognizing danger, de-escalation, and bystander intervention.
The guidance has sparked debate, as it addresses the rising rates of sexual violence in Germany. Since 2018, rapes have increased by 72%, with Bremen labeled the most dangerous city in the country. The city has the highest proportion of migrants, and 49% of rapes there are committed by foreigners, despite their population being only 23%. Police officials emphasize that the vomit method is not a primary response but one of many strategies to empower individuals.
This approach is not unique to Bremen. In Berlin, police previously recommended singing to irritate attackers, a suggestion that drew public ridicule. The tactic was later removed from official materials after being criticized as unworkable. Similar advice has been given in other German cities following attacks on joggers and in public spaces, often leading to controversy over whether such measures infringe on personal freedoms. Critics argue that these recommendations fail to address the root causes of the rising crime rates, such as the influx of migrants.
While the vomit technique is part of broader efforts to enhance public safety, experts note that it does not tackle the underlying factors contributing to the surge in sexual assaults. The focus on individual self-defense measures has raised concerns about whether they adequately address systemic issues. As crime rates continue to climb, the effectiveness and appropriateness of such strategies remain under scrutiny. The police maintain that these courses help individuals recognize threats and respond thoughtfully, contributing to crime prevention.
Despite the controversy, the police insist that the vomit method is just one of many tools in a comprehensive approach to safety. However, the broader context of rising crime and the role of migration in these incidents suggests that more holistic solutions are needed. The debate over these self-defense tactics highlights the complex interplay between personal safety, public policy, and the challenges of addressing sexual violence in Europe.