City of Salzburg – protection against violence is not an April Fool’s joke
One in three women worldwide will experience violence in their lifetime. That is more than a billion affected women and girls. The corona pandemic has also led to a significant increase in domestic violence, child and youth welfare reported recently. The number of evictions and barring orders has increased significantly in 2021 (already 285 cases by the end of November) compared to 2020 (184 cases). This corresponds to an increase of 55%.
Violence is not a trifle
“It is important to me to keep reminding people: Violence in our society is not a trifle and protection against violence requires that we all pull together, stay alert and do not leave people affected by violence behind. We have to see what we can do to help them get out of their difficult situation. The non-violent city on all levels remains our goal”, says the responsible social councilor Anja Hagenauer.
Numerous anti-violence focal points in the city
The city of Salzburg has set itself the task of making Salzburg a non-violent city. In addition to awareness-raising campaigns, this also happens with specific priorities:
- Protection against violence on the till slip
Since February, the number of the Salzburg Violence Protection Center has been on the receipts of the municipal companies (swimming pools and ice arena). Those affected can call 0662 870 100 if they are affected by violence, anonymously if desired. Recently, the Paracelsusbad has also been part of the campaign. - Initial legal information
For 14 days, the diversity team offers legal advice with specialized lawyers for women on divorce, separation, custody and maintenance issues. This initial legal information provides information about rights and possible courses of action. - One of the ongoing priorities in terms of protection against violence is the “Round table on protection against violence“. Written to implement a cross-city prevention concept that should connect private and public institutions.
- At the end of last year, the BWS Lehen started the project “StoP – Neighborhoods without partner violence“. Neighbors should be encouraged to look when they see violence and act accordingly. Awareness is raised in the district at workshops, information events and publicity campaigns.
- Together with the self-confidence department, the online specialist lecture series “basics after work“. The specific focus is on communicating child protection and violence protection concepts for organizations.
- The Pixie Book “Girls on the Net”, published by the Association of Cities together with Austria’s municipal women’s representatives, explains terms such as “sexting” or “body shaming”. In helpful tips, girls and young women learn how to react specifically in unpleasant or threatening situations.