zeit.de
Hildesheim Diocese Launches Online Survey on Sexual Abuse
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Hildesheim in Germany launched an online survey on September 8, 2025, to investigate sexual abuse cases from 1945 to the present, aiming to understand past injustices and create a safer environment.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of this initiative on the Diocese of Hildesheim and the broader Catholic Church in Germany?
- This initiative could significantly impact the Diocese of Hildesheim by fostering transparency and accountability regarding sexual abuse. The detailed findings and implemented changes may serve as a model for other dioceses in Germany, potentially influencing broader reforms within the Catholic Church to prevent future abuse and improve protection for vulnerable individuals.
- What is the primary goal of the online survey launched by the Hildesheim Diocese, and what specific actions will be taken based on its results?
- The survey aims to systematically investigate sexual abuse within the diocese since 1945, examining the actions, structures, and consequences. The findings will inform prevention strategies, remembrance culture, and protection measures to prevent future abuse. Concrete steps for change and prevention will be derived from the results.
- How does this survey relate to previous investigations of sexual abuse within the Hildesheim Diocese, and what is the scope of the current research?
- This survey is part of the third major study on sexual abuse in the diocese, building on two previous studies (2017 and 2021) that focused on Bishop Heinrich Maria Janssen's time (1957-1982). The current study, costing €1.6 million, expands the scope to include Catholic-run children's homes and youth work in parishes from 1934 to the present, with researchers given access to all available files.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents the online survey and the larger study as positive steps towards transparency and accountability. The focus is on the proactive measures taken by the diocese, rather than dwelling on the past abuses. The bishop's personal commitment is highlighted, emphasizing a sense of responsibility and action. However, the framing might unintentionally downplay the severity of past abuses by emphasizing the positive actions taken in response.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, reporting facts and quotes from the bishop. There is no overtly charged or loaded language. The use of terms like "safe and sensitive" to describe the desired future state of the church could be seen as slightly positive framing, but it's not overly dramatic or manipulative.
Bias by Omission
While the article mentions previous studies focusing on the period of Bishop Janssen's tenure, and the accusations against him, it does not delve into the specifics of those accusations or the number of victims involved. This omission could leave the reader with an incomplete picture of the extent of the abuse. The article also omits details of the survey methodology, which would be crucial for assessing its potential limitations.
Sustainable Development Goals
The online survey and broader study aim to address past sexual violence within the Catholic diocese, promoting accountability and justice for survivors. The initiative demonstrates a commitment to creating safer environments and preventing future abuse, aligning with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provides access to justice for all and builds effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. The focus on transparency, prevention and creating a safer environment directly contributes to this goal.