Cologne's taxi voucher program aims to boost women's safety
Cologne is testing a new project aimed at increasing the safety of women returning home at night. The city is distributing free taxi vouchers that can be used from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM Eastern Time, reports "Deutsche Welle".
The new project in Cologne offers women taxi vouchers worth 10 euros (approximately CAD 15) to facilitate their safe return home at night. According to the city council, the initiative aims to increase women's sense of security, as they often fear using public transport after dark.
The project was enthusiastically received; almost all of the 1,500 vouchers were distributed within one day. The coupons can be used throughout the week from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM Eastern Time. Only one woman can use one voucher, even if traveling in a group, and men cannot be present in the taxi, notes "Deutsche Welle".
Why is there a need for such actions?
Studies by the Federal Criminal Police Office indicate that more than half of women in Germany avoid using public transport after dark due to fears of violence or assault. In comparison, this fear applies to only one-quarter of men.
The project in Cologne is a response to these statistics. The city council emphasizes that safety concerns should not limit women’s participation in public life.
The pilot program will run until the end of August 2025. Every woman over the age of 16, as well as individuals with a different gender listed on their ID, can receive a maximum of three vouchers.
Cologne is not the only city in Germany that has implemented such solutions. Similar initiatives already exist in Heidelberg, Stuttgart, and Mannheim. In Munich, the taxi voucher system has been in place since 2020.
Although the project is popular, there are also critical opinions. Some believe that the voucher's value—10 euros (approximately CAD 15)—is insufficient to cover the cost of travel in a large city. Others point out that men are excluded from the offer, which raises feelings of discrimination within this group.
