Show moral courage
Witnessing a hate crime? Three simple steps let you help without putting yourself in danger.
It doesn’t take much
Moral courage isn’t only about being brave. It means actively standing up for what’s right and taking a stand against hate and intolerance.
It doesn’t start only in an emergency. In everyday life you can break down prejudice, stand up for others and raise your voice against hate and injustice. That inspires others too.
How to act
These three steps help you and others without putting yourself in danger.
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Get yourself to safety.
Leave dangerous places if you can. Your safety comes first.
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Draw attention to yourself.
Shout for help and speak to specific passers-by: “You in the red jacket, please help me!”
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110
Call 110.
Call the police emergency number straight away. Stay calm and remember the key questions.
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In an emergency, every second counts
With our emergency tips and the guide for talking to the police emergency number 110, you’re prepared. At school, at work or at home: the poster can save lives.
- Where did it happen? Give the address or landmarks.
- What happened? Brief and factual, just the facts.
- How many people are affected or involved?
- Who is involved? Clothing, age, direction of escape, number plate.
- Wait for questions. Don’t hang up until the police know everything.
As a witness you also have duties
Tell the truth
What you say about the incident must be true. Otherwise you may be committing an offence yourself.
Personal details
At the start of the interview, your first and last name, date and place of birth and home address are asked for and recorded. You have to answer these questions.
If you are afraid
If you are at particular risk, so-called “limited witness protection” applies. Instead of your home address, another address where you can be reached can be recorded. If you are afraid of the perpetrator, contact a counselling service .
Did you see something?
You can report it to the police or get counselling.