Why?

(Try to find out what feelings and needs are alive in the other person: empathic resonance)

Do you feel scared/anxious/ frightened?
Do you need safety/security/ protection?
What I’m hearing is that you are scared/anxious/ frightened, because in the media there are a lot of messages about rapists who are coming from abroad and you want to be protected against these foreigners. Is that correct?

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What if?

(‘Mirror questions’: how would it be if you were standing in the shoes of that person)

Do you know foreigners personally? How do you think it is for them to be called ‘rapist’ just because they are coming from abroad?

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Self-reflection

(Questions you can ask yourself in silence to support yourself in understanding the other person)

How important is safety/security/ protection for me?
When do I have the need for it?
How do I feel when this need is not fulfilled?

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Empowerment

(More information on the issue and tips how to explore the problem and continue the discussion)

Women's fear of sexual violence or harassment is very well understandable. And every single case must be taken seriously and condemned. Media analyses show, however, that especially on the Internet cases are often taken up in which a "foreigner" is presumed to be the perpetrator, even if the investigation has not yet been completed. Other cases, however, are often commented on without being examined. Often a mixture of rumours and media reports is quickly spread and posted until a mood is created. Therefore, you should always check the source and validity of a message.
For women, their own home is the most dangerous place. This is where they are most exposed to physical and sexual violence. The perpetrators are mostly family members, partners or acquaintances. However, many women are also sexually harassed in public places. For example, unwanted touches, sexist slogans, and insults are unfortunately widespread. Some men believe that they can harass women with impunity. All forms of violence against women must be prosecuted and punished.
Since this topic is mostly based on stories one has heard or read, it is important to report about your personal positive encounters and the completely safe togetherness in everyday life. Some people are just one-sidedly informed or generalize individual cases.