Dance demo in the North - can a flash mob make a difference? - Northern Germany rises in dance to protest violence against women and girls

This Saturday, cities across northern Germany will join a global protest against violence toward women and girls. The event marks the ninth year of One Billion Rising, a worldwide dance demonstration held every February 14. Participants will gather in public spaces to demand better prevention and support for survivors.

The movement began in 2012 and has since grown to include over 200 countries. In Germany alone, past events have taken place in 160 cities, from Berlin's Brandenburg Gate—backed by Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig—to smaller towns like Bamberg, Halle, and Brandenburg an der Havel. This year, around 30 locations in northern Germany will host protests, including Rostock, where about 50 dancers will perform.

The demonstration centres on a simple, four-and-a-half-minute choreography set to Break the Chain by Tena Clark. Organisers encourage spontaneity, allowing anyone to join regardless of experience. Alongside live events, participants can film themselves dancing to the campaign song Women on Fire for a global video collage.

Social media plays a key role in spreading the message, connecting activists worldwide. Yet, physical gatherings remain vital. Public protests create visible solidarity, reinforcing community bonds while pushing for stronger intervention measures.

The protests aim to expose ongoing violence and push for improved prevention programmes. With events across northern Germany and beyond, the campaign continues to unite people in a shared demand for change. This year's demonstrations will again highlight the power of collective action on February 14.