According to a recent survey by Statistics Austria, every third woman in Austria is already a victim of psychological or physical violence. Last but not least, these alarming figures show that urgent action is needed. As part of a summit on violence protection, Minister of Women Susanne Raab (ÖVP), Minister of Justice Alma Zadic (Greens), Minister of the Interior Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) and Minister of Social Affairs Johannes Rauch (Greens) exchanged views with experts from police, justice and victim support organizations on Tuesday. The ministers then jointly informed about findings from various studies and their priorities in the fight against violence against women.
All heads of department stressed the importance of close cooperation between so many ministries, because violence against women is very complex. And that doesn’t just start when physical violence is present. Jealousy, divorce in advance, addictions, drug abuse and mental illness, but last but not least the origin of the perpetrator play a role, said Minister for Women’s Affairs Raab. A study commissioned by the government shows that 40 percent of the perpetrators have a migration background. In this context, the Minister of Women’s Affairs also stressed the importance of successful integration and teaching equality between men and women. Raab warned of a “misunderstood tolerance”.
Karner: 27 femicides so far this year
Interior Minister Karner initially gave a “sad and sober” overview of the current year: by the end of November, more than 13,300 entry and approach bans had been issued against perpetrators of violence. In addition, more than 10,000 threats were issued to prevent violence and nearly 170 security police case conferences were held by the end of November — “that’s almost tripled,” Karner reported. According to the interior minister, 27 femicides have already been committed this year. The victims were between the ages of six and 87. In the case of three victims, the perpetrator was banned from entering or approaching.
Justice Minister Zadic pointed out that the psychosocial litigation support, which “every woman is entitled to free of charge”, is unfortunately not used as often as one would hope. That is why an information campaign has now been started. In addition, a concept is now being developed as to how and when the so-called violence clinics will be set up.
Violence ambulances as “key in the fight against violence”
These provisions are intended to increase the likelihood of violent criminals being convicted. Experiences from other countries would prove this, Zadic emphasised. Violence ambulances document injuries after violence and record traces so that they can serve as evidence in legal proceedings. Raab sees the ambulances as “key in the fight against violence against women and children”.
Rauch stressed that the figures on the acts of violence “are not being swept aside”. “An important part is prevention. We use our resources to prevent violence,” explains the Minister of Social Affairs, pointing out that social and financial emergencies can often lead to pressure, which can then lead to violence. “That’s why we need to make sure people can meet their basic needs,” says Rauch. The economic security of the people is the basis for the fact that such pressures do not arise.
Have you been affected by violence? Get help here:
- Frauenhelpline.at – Women’s Helpline: 0800 222 555
- 24-hour emergency number for women in Vienna: 01 71719
- Info for men: 0800 400 700
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
