At the end of 2024, the Berlin Football Association's anti-discrimination contact point conducted a survey on experiences of discrimination in BFV match operations. The aim of the survey was to supplement the documented incidents from special reports, incidents and reports in order to gain an insight into the large dark field - i.e. unreported incidents - of discrimination.

To this end, 116 response forms were evaluated, the results of which - even though they are not very representative - should provide information about the prevalence of discrimination and the perception of measures.

Report on incidents of discrimination in amateur football in Berlin

Discrimination on the soccer pitch: Who is affected?

Of the 116 questionnaires evaluated, 61% of respondents stated that they had experienced discrimination themselves at least once, while 85% had observed discrimination on the pitch. This means that intersectionally disadvantaged groups are particularly affected - especially people who do not identify as white, German, FLINTA* or LGBTQIA+. In these groups, 90 percent report personal experiences of discrimination. 72 percent of those affected also state that the incident affected them in the long term.

The predominant dimension of discrimination is racism, followed by gender-based discrimination and intersectional discrimination incidents. According to the survey, most incidents come from opponents on the pitch and from spectators and are perceived verbally or as microaggressions.

These are the possible measures

The survey shows that only a few of those affected report the incidents to the referee or the association. The possibility of more direct reporting cases of child protection, violence and discrimination to the BFV was not known to the majority of respondents.

In addition to the aspect of visibility, the survey also revealed a need for action in the areas of qualification, for example through anti-discrimination training, and the promotion of diversity in the BFV. The desire for greater relevance of the focus on those affected can also be derived. In addition, the BFV recognizes the importance of further establishing the full-time anti-discrimination contact point in terms of involvement in decisions, problems and issues relating to discrimination.

Further information on the topic of anti-discrimination at the BFV