Projektbericht

"Together against sexism" alliance

The signatory organizations share a common goal: a society free from sexism and sexualized violence.

A society where sexism and sexualized violence have no place—that is the goal of everyone involved in the alliance "Together Against Sexism". Nearly 900 organizations—including numerous companies, municipalities, administrations, and associations—have already signed the "Joint Declaration Against Sexism and Sexual Harassment," forming a cross-industry network.

Sexism is deeply rooted in our society and has serious consequences: beyond gender-based discrimination and inequality, it provides fertile ground for sexualized harassment and violence. In the coalition agreement of the 24th Federal Government, the coalition partners stated: "We want a strong alliance against sexism." The resulting alliance is the outcome of this initiative. To drive widespread structural change, it aims to continue expanding. The alliance's work is based on the realization that cultural change—toward respect, fairness, and equality—only succeeds when diverse societal actors work together in a network and test practical, accessible solutions.

An insight into our measures for respect and fairness in society and the workplace during the current funding period:

Focus on sexism in the workplace:

Starting with the new funding period in 2026, the alliance will focus on sexism in the workplace. Studies show that sexism occurs particularly frequently there and that preventive measures can be highly effective. Another focus is on specifically reaching target groups that have been less engaged so far, particularly executives as well as small and medium-sized enterprises. Since these often lack both equal opportunity officers and formalized complaint structures, we are developing tailored, practical formats that are easily accessible in terms of language, framing, and scope.

Winning men over as allies:

The alliance is also increasing its efforts to involve men as active allies. To this end, practical tools—ranging from reflection questions and intervention tips to arguments—are being developed and provided to help men actively stand up against sexism in their professional and private lives.

Sharing, disseminating, and networking knowledge:

All alliance members have regular opportunities to exchange ideas on current topics at our Impulse Labs. This allows for the sharing of experiences, concrete measures against sexism, and knowledge from various industries and sectors, while developing a deeper intersectional understanding of sexism and anchoring it in public discourse. The "Together Against Sexism" alliance is intended to function not only as a knowledge repository, contact point, and networking hub, but also as a think tank: through our own studies and surveys, we are creating new foundations of knowledge and data.

Our brochures and guides are to be expanded into Easy and Plain Language to make complex content understandable and clear for various target groups.

Expansion of the print-on-demand exhibition: The exhibition will be made more inclusive, specifically for non-native German speakers, to provide low-threshold access. Accompanying lecture formats are being developed so that exhibitors can organize their own events around the exhibition, depending on their resources.

All materials created within the framework of the alliance are available free of charge, can be ordered, and are accessible here.

In the first funding period (2022-2025), the alliance focused on three areas:

1. Sexism in the workplace

Sexism in the workplace manifests in many ways and harms organizations and institutions. The alliance supported them on the path to a respectful corporate culture, for example by providing materials. These are being continuously developed further. The offerings are aimed particularly at small and medium-sized enterprises as well as craft businesses.
See here.

2. Sexism in Public Spaces

Public spaces and public transport are frequent settings for sexism, leading to a lack of safety and feelings of fear. Through initiatives such as the free print-on-demand exhibition "Together Against Sexism," the alliance has supported municipalities and other entities in raising awareness about sexism in public spaces.
Go to the exhibition.

3. Sexism in Culture and Media

Sexism in culture and media: Since 2017, sexual assault in the cultural sector has been brought to global attention under the #MeToo movement, sparking a worldwide conversation that has raised awareness about sexual violence and the abuse of power. Through resources such as "Communicating Competently About Gender-Based Violence – A Practical Guide for Managers and Employees in the Media and Communications Industry," the alliance has provided media professionals across various sectors with accessible tips and further guidance.

Support the "Together Against Sexism" alliance!

Who can join the "Together Against Sexism" alliance?

The alliance is open to organizations such as associations, companies, municipalities, government agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions. Membership in the alliance and access to its resources are free of charge.

What is the "Joint Declaration Against Sexism and Sexual Harassment"?

To combat sexism structurally with the help of society and its institutions, a declaration was published in October 2021 in collaboration with representatives from politics, business, culture, and the media: "Together Against Sexism and Sexual Harassment" In this declaration, signatories commit to preventing and ending sexualized violence and sexism. You can read the joint declaration here. It forms the foundation of the "Together Against Sexism" alliance, which was established in February 2023.