Austria Launches “16 Days Against Violence” Campaign, Amplifying Support for women
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A global initiative to combat gender-based violence is underway in Austria, with officials emphasizing the importance of accessible resources and heightened awareness. The “16 Days Against Violence” campaign, beginning on November 25th – the International Day against Violence against Women – aims to make resources readily available to those affected and to visibly demonstrate a commitment to ending violence against women throughout the Waidhofen/Thaya district and beyond.
A United Front Against Gender-Based Violence
The campaign is being actively supported by the Lower Austrian People’s Party and its affiliated organizations, reflecting a broad consensus on the urgency of the issue. State Governor johanna Mikl-Leitner was unequivocal in her statement, asserting, “Violence against women has absolutely no place in Lower Austria. The dignity, rights and safety of women must be fully respected and protected.” She further emphasized the commitment to providing “thorough support” to affected women during the coming weeks, with a focused effort on raising public awareness.
Strengthening Regional Support networks
Recognizing that violence often occurs in private, officials are prioritizing the visibility of local support systems. Family and Women’s State Councilor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister highlighted Lower Austria’s “very well-developed network of help and advice centers,” assuring that “every woman who seeks protection should receive help quickly and unbureaucratically.” This commitment extends to ensuring efficient and accessible services across the region.
Federal Councilor Viktoria Hutter underscored the importance of regional resources for the Waidhofen/Thaya district, stating, “Violence often begins in secret. That’s why it’s so significant that we have visible contact points – from the women’s advice center in Waidhofen to the violence protection center in Zwettl to the women’s helpline.” The “16 days against violence” campaign, she explained, serves to both raise awareness and guide those experiencing violence toward available pathways to safety.
Critical Emergency Numbers Readily Available
To facilitate immediate access to assistance, the Lower Austrian People’s Party is actively publicizing key emergency contact numbers. Women in need of support are encouraged to reach out to the Lower Austria women’s telephone at 0800 800 810 or the women’s helpline at 0800 222 555. These resources provide confidential support and guidance to individuals experiencing or at risk of violence.
The launch of this campaign signals a renewed dedication to protecting women and fostering a society free from violence. It represents a critical step in ensuring that those affected know they are not alone and that help is readily available.
Why: The campaign was launched to address gender-based violence in Austria, specifically in the Waidhofen/Thaya district and beyond, and to align with the international “16 Days Against Violence” initiative.
Who: Key figures involved include State Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner,Family and Women’s State Councilor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister,and Federal Councilor Viktoria Hutter,along with the Lower Austrian People’s Party and affiliated organizations.The campaign aims to support all women experiencing or at risk of violence.
What: The campaign focuses on raising awareness about violence against women, publicizing emergency contact numbers (08
