In Berlin city, where over 391 cases of sexual offenses in public transit were reported in 2023—a staggering 260% increase over the past decade—the question of safety for women in public spaces has become more pressing than ever. Against this backdrop, Antje Kapek, a representative of Berlin’s Green Party, proposed an idea inspired by Tokyo: women-only subway compartments. Kapek described the initiative as a potential "protection zone," offering women a safe space to travel, especially during peak hours and late at night. “In the evening hours, when it’s especially crowded, it becomes increasingly uncomfortable for women,” she explained, emphasizing the need for targeted solutions to combat harassment.
✨IWB is an independent project and we need your support to keep running!✨
Support our work and get benefits back:
Global Inspirations: Learning from Tokyo, Rio and Beyond
This proposal draws from successful examples worldwide. In Tokyo, women-only compartments operate during rush hours, offering safety in one of the busiest metros in the world. Similarly, cities like Rio de Janeiro and New Delhi have implemented women-only train cars during peak times, aiming to reduce harassment and create a sense of security. Even Austria offers ladies-only cabins on its night trains, providing women with privacy and peace of mind during long-distance travel.
Criticism from Local Authorities
However, not everyone agrees that this is the right solution for Berlin. Critics, including Berlin’s public transportation authority BVG, argue that existing safety measures, such as surveillance cameras, emergency call buttons, and security personnel, are sufficient. “We work tirelessly to ensure all passengers feel safe and comfortable,” a BVG representative stated, underscoring the organization’s commitment to inclusivity. Yet, these measures have done little to curb the rising number of sexual offenses, prompting many to demand more immediate and visible actions.
Addressing the Root Causes of Violence
While proponents of women-only compartments point to the psychological benefits of designated safe spaces, opponents argue that such measures merely treat the symptoms without addressing the root causes of gender-based violence. “Safety doesn’t come from segregating victims but from tackling the issue of perpetrators head-on,” stated Rolf Wiedenhaupt, a spokesperson for Berlin’s AfD party. This sentiment reflects a broader criticism that these compartments risk perpetuating the idea that women must alter their behavior or movements to ensure their safety, rather than society holding offenders accountable.
Practical and Logistical Challenges
Practical challenges also cloud the proposal. Unlike Tokyo’s metro cars, Berlin’s trains are often open-plan, making it logistically difficult to create separate compartments. Implementing the idea would require significant investment in infrastructure and staffing to monitor these spaces effectively. Kapek acknowledged these hurdles but remained optimistic about sparking a broader dialogue: “This isn’t just about one solution. It’s about asking ourselves how we can make public transport safer for everyone.”
A Global Issue with Cultural Dimensions
The broader question of safety in public transit is not unique to Berlin. Worldwide, women face harassment in crowded spaces, leading to a range of solutions. While Japan’s women-only compartments have been largely successful, critics there argue that the initiative doesn’t address societal norms that enable harassment. “Why must I, as a woman, choose where to stand to feel safe?” asked a Tokyo resident in a local survey, highlighting the cultural dimensions of this issue.
Inclusivity and Evolving the Plan
In Berlin, the proposal has also sparked debates about inclusivity. Early iterations of the plan considered reserving these compartments for FLINTA groups—women, non-binary individuals, and other marginalized genders—but this was met with internal party resistance. Ultimately, the focus shifted solely to women, which some see as a missed opportunity to address the safety concerns of all vulnerable groups in public spaces.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
As the debate continues, alternative solutions are being discussed. Many advocate for increased security personnel on trains and platforms, better lighting at stations, and more robust legal frameworks to punish offenders swiftly. Others suggest leveraging technology, such as AI-driven surveillance, to identify and respond to suspicious behavior in real-time. These approaches aim to create a safer environment for everyone, without resorting to segregation.
A Complex Balancing Act
Ultimately, women-only compartments represent a complex intersection of practicality, symbolism, and societal change. They offer an immediate respite for women who feel unsafe but risk becoming a Band-Aid solution that diverts attention from deeper issues. As Berlin grapples with this proposal, one question looms large: Can the city balance the need for immediate safety measures with the long-term goal of fostering a culture of respect and equality?
What do you think? We want to hear your opinion!
Be part of the conversation inside the IWB community. Share your opinions and check out the insights of other women in Berlin.
✨ Support International Women in Berlin✨
Help us empower women in Berlin! With every €1 donation, you say a heartfelt 'thank you' to our independent project dedicated to helping women thrive in Berlin. For €5 or €10, enjoy exclusive perks and access to IWB events. Your contribution is vital for us to continue creating a supportive community. 💌 Donate Now – Let's succeed together in Berlin!