This year, 26 women have already been murdered. One in six women experiences intimate partner violence. Politics is now setting a milestone in protection against violence. Two violence clinics will be set up – one in Vienna for the east and one in Graz for the south, Minister of Women’s Affairs Susanne Raab announced in the ‘Krone’.
These outpatient clinics are important because victims of violence are cared for, advised and evidence is collected there.
“However, an admission to the outpatient clinic does not necessarily immediately lead to a report. This is especially important because sexual violence is a traumatic experience and women often need more time before they decide to report it.”
A second major concern for Raab is increasing the number of convictions for physical and sexual violence. Currently this is less than ten percent.
“The reason for this is often a lack of evidence, and we want to improve that. The violence clinics will contribute to this. We not only want to protect the victims, but also punish the perpetrators harshly,” Raab said. Women should not feel that reporting it will lead to nothing.
It is also important to expand and raise awareness of the counseling centers that have already started. “We see from the data that very few victims of violence turn to counseling centers before the crime.” Of the women who were murdered, ‘they are the absolute minority.’
“Experiencing violence is often fraught with shame, but I want to encourage women to seek help at the first signs of violence.”
Efforts are being made to create awareness that an extensive network of advice and assistance exists. The minister mentions mental disorders, addiction and a migration background as risk factors for violence among men.
From a women’s perspective, it is important to be financially independent in order to leave an abusive relationship.
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.
