Reporting procedures for discrimination
In line with its guiding principles, the nGbK has developed a two-level procedure for reporting experiences of discrimination. In 2024, a confidential reporting team was elected that can be approached without barriers by anyone visiting or working at the nGbK in cases of discrimination. Building on their own experience, the team’s three members offer counselling in various languages. This contact is the first, confidential level, which can also be used anonymously. The confidential reporting team also provides information about external bodies including anti-discrimination offices at federal and state level (Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes, LADG-Ombudsstelle des Landes Berlin), Lesbenberatung/LesMigras, Insaan, Wildwasser, BIG, ADNB, and Sonntagsclub.
In a second step, and with the support of the confidential reporting team, it is also possible to launch an official complaints procedure. This consists of reporting the matter to the nGbK’s managing director and steering committee, leading to further measures on the part of the nGbK aimed at addressing the specific incident directly and at preventing similar incidents in future. With the consent of the person making the complaint, and following consultation with an external legal advice bureau, it is also possible to launch regular legal proceedings whose course can then only be influenced to a limited extent.
For those employed by the nGbK there is also a complaints procedure (AGG Beschwerdestelle) in accordance with §13 AGG (General Equal Treatment Act). Complaints can be submitted by nGbK staff who feel they have been discriminated against due to racism or on the grounds of their ethnic origin, gender, religion or worldview, disability, age, or sexual identity.