The handling of mass sexual assaults and muggings carried out by groups of young males during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Cologne has provoked debate around Europe.
There has been outrage at the mayor of the city’s comments suggesting women should “stick together in groups, don’t get split up, even if you’re in a party mood” to avoid attacks – resulting in derision on social media with the hashtag #einarmlaenge (an arm’s length) – and widespread criticism of the police.
We want to hear from you if you have been affected directly or indirectly by the attacks or the atmosphere in Germany in the aftermath, particularly if you live in Cologne or were there on New Year’s Eve.
Did you or a friend experience what was happening near the main station? If you live in Cologne, what’s the atmosphere like in the city? Are you concerned about the way this incident has been handled? What do you think needs to be done to help Germany and Cologne to move forward?
You can share your experiences confidentially using the form below, or if you are happy to have your experiences published, click on the blue GuardianWitness button.
