Berlin – A man who bravely aided victims during the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack is speaking out about the bureaucratic hurdles he faced in receiving support for his resulting trauma. Gerhard Sawatzki, a trained paramedic, was present at the Breitscheidplatz on December 19, 2016, when Anis Amri drove a truck into the crowded market, killing 12 people and injuring 67. He immediately began providing assistance to the injured.
Sawatzki recounts in a new documentary series, “RONZHEIMER – Wie geht’s, Deutschland?” with Paul Ronzheimer, that despite assurances of swift aid from the state, he received little to no support in the aftermath. He described the lasting emotional impact of the event, stating, “I still remember how I walked away from a dying young woman because I knew I couldn’t help anymore. That is an incredibly burdening point.”
Following the attack, Sawatzki was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. However, he found himself navigating a complex system where he was deemed neither a victim nor a family member of a victim and therefore ineligible for assistance from the Berlin aid hotline established for those affected by the tragedy. Prior to the attack, Sawatzki had been building a career in the IT sector.
Initially, Sawatzki received Krankengeld (sick pay) and coverage for therapy. However, approximately six months after the attack, in mid-2017, his benefits were discontinued when the Krankenkasse (health insurance fund) deemed him unable to work.
Psychotherapist Rainer Rothe, working with Sawatzki, explained to Ronzheimer that “the pain and suffering are not recognized by authorities. And that is the second wound for many. Bureaucracy is structural violence. Bureaucracy can kill people.” Sawatzki himself stated, “I searched for help for ages and was always turned down.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on December 19, 2016, at the Breitscheidplatz?
Anis Amri drove a truck into a Christmas market, killing 12 people and injuring 67.
What challenges did Gerhard Sawatzki face after the attack?
Sawatzki struggled to receive support for his post-traumatic stress disorder, as he was not classified as a victim or a family member of a victim by aid organizations.
What ultimately happened with Sawatzki’s financial support?
His Krankengeld and therapy coverage were discontinued approximately six months after the attack when the Krankenkasse deemed him unable to work.
As Sawatzki’s story illustrates, navigating the aftermath of a traumatic event can be compounded by systemic barriers. What role should governments and aid organizations play in ensuring comprehensive support for those who respond to crises and experience lasting trauma?
