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Germany: Front-line workers face growing abuse, violence

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April 5, 2026

A German train conductor was savagely beaten and killed by a passenger in February 2026. Public-sector and service workers are exposed to ever increasing harassment and physical harm in the country. How can we increase their safety?

Attacks on front-line workers in Germany are on the rise. Public service personnel, including emergency services workers and officials, are the target of verbal and physical violence.  

This trend not only affects the personal safety of those involved, but also core government functions. When the emergency services are unable to respond to calls, public sector employees are threatened or railway staff are attacked while on duty, the state's ability to act is called into question.

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