“Violence has no place in Austria!”

Violence against women is still a sad reality worldwide, but also in Austria. That’s why the Ministry of Women’s Affairs is once again participating in the United Nations’ “Orange The World” campaign this year, which is taking place from November 25th to December 10th. During these 16 days, buildings and landmarks around the world will be illuminated orange as a visible sign against violence to women and girls.

“Every woman and every girl in Austria should be able to live free from violence, because violence against women and children has no place in our society. Perpetrators who act against women or children must be punished to the fullest extent of the law – anything else is unacceptable. By illuminating the Federal Chancellery during the ’16 Days Against Violence’ campaign period, we are showing our solidarity with all those affected,” said Women’s Minister Susanne Raab.

In the past five years, the women’s budget has tripled to 33.6 million euros, a large part of which was invested in protection against violence. For example, women’s advice centers for sexual violence were set up in every federal state, the Austria-wide violence protection centers for those affected by domestic violence and stalking were funded and a women’s and girls’ advice center was set up in every political district. In addition, Women’s Minister Susanne Raab, together with Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, presented an Austria-wide violence protection strategy in the summer, which was developed with the involvement of over 200 actors. “It is important to us that all women know where they can get support in Austria in the area of ​​protection from violence or in other life situations. “The violence protection system can work effectively through close cooperation between all relevant institutions,” explains Raab.

Violence Protection Summit
On November 26th, the 5th Violence Protection Summit will take place in front of around 120 invited guests at the Federal Ministry of the Interior in order to find further ways in which violence against women can be prevented through the exchange of experiences and in panel discussions with experts.

“Every woman who is a victim of violence must know: it is never your fault! And you are not alone! Please contact the police or one of the free advice centers that are available throughout Austria. You will find competent and quick help there,” concludes Raab.