Zielscheibe Schiedsrichter - immer noch!?

Abstract

It is often assumed that the atmosphere on German football pitches is becoming increasingly harsh—especially towards referees. In a comprehensive survey, referees’ feeling of safety and the victimisation of football referees in Baden-Württemberg were repeatedly examined; this is the first time that longitudinal data that allows changes in this respect to become clear has been available. This study examines both the reported and the actual frequency of insults, discrimination, threats and assaults against referees as well as the question of what effects the experience of such (violent) conflicts has on their feeling of safety on the pitch.