The focus: Conference shows ways of protection at the workplace!

The focus: Conference shows ways of protection at the workplace!

ÖGB-Haus Catamaran, Österreich - On March 26, 2025, the violence prevention conference, entitled "Also, act instead of gaffing!" in the ÖGB-Haus Catamaran. The event was organized by several organizations, including the Chamber of Labor (AK) Vienna and the Austrian Trade Union Confederation (ÖGB) as well as the unions Vida, GPA and Göd, and the Weisser Ring association. Around 320 participants discussed topics such as prevention, victim protection and dealing with violence.

Renate Anderl, the President of the AK, emphasized that violence in the workplace increases and that employers are required to develop suitable protective measures. Christa Hörmann from the ÖGB underlined the importance of violence prevention, especially for women who are often victims of attacks. Olivia Janisch from Vida added that attacks should not be trifled or taboo, while Mario Ferrari from GPA pointed out to the structural problem of violence at work and emphasized the responsibility of the employers. Eckehard Quin von Göd was concerned about the willingness to use violence towards public staff and called for an expansion of protective measures.

networking and support for those affected

Another important contribution came from Natascha Smertnig from the Weissen Ring, which emphasized the importance of events such as the person concerned and the processing of their experiences. Holger Pressel from AOK Baden-Württemberg called for a holistic view of violence at the workplace and the promotion of a functioning report. The ILO 190 was also a central topic of the conference.

The ILO Agreement No. 190 To remedy violence and harassment at the workplace was passed in 2019 and represents a major progress. According to BMAS Pay attention and promote a non -violent world of work. The scope includes both the public and the private sector and affects all employees, including interns and job seekers.

legal framework and future measures

The agreement defines violence and harassment as unacceptable behaviors that can cause physical, psychological, sexual or economic damage. Gender -specific violence and harassment are expressly addressed. So far, the Federal Government sees no need to supplement German laws in order to meet the requirements of the Convention. Critics, on the other hand, criticize the insufficient implementation of preventive approach through existing laws, in particular the general equal treatment law (AGG).

according to Humanresourcesmanager are therefore required to consider the fulfillment of existing obligations in order to avoid legal surprises. The Convention also demands that the effects of domestic violence on the world of work are recognized and minimized.

Overall, the conference showed how important it is to develop clear rules and strategies for violence prevention and to promote the civil courage of each individual. The final declaration should be pioneering for future protective measures and the awareness of society.

Images from the event are available at ÖGB flickr .