Together against violence: SPÖ women send a strong sign in Göllersdorf

Together against violence: SPÖ women send a strong sign in Göllersdorf

In Austrian society, violence against women is an urgent problem. Shocking statistics show that about every third woman in Austria has experienced physical or sexual violence. By November 19, 2024, 26 female female and 39 attempted murder cases and the most serious acts of violence against women have been documented. These alarming numbers illustrate the urgency to act against this violence.

in Göllersdorf, the SPÖ is particularly active for violence protection under the leadership of Uschi Stemberger. At a highly frequented intersection, a large poster was set up to draw attention to this critical topic. "Women have a right to a safe life free of fear. We have to put an end to violence against women!" Explains Stemberger with emphasis.

a sign against oppression

As part of the "16 days against violence", starting on November 25th and ending on December 10th, promotions will be carried out throughout Austria. Under the motto "Shame has to change sides", the SPÖ women are calling for a change in social perception. The initiative receives support from various personalities, including from the state women's chairman Elvira Schmidt and the trade unionist Rudolf Silvan. This campaign aims to focus on the victims to the perpetrators and to raise awareness of their responsibility.

The background story of this slogan is remarkable: Gisèle Pelicot, who spoke in the courtroom in Avignon in September 2024, bravely brought up her personal experience with violence. Her husband was accused of raping and stunning them several times in a period of almost nine years, and numerous other men were also charged. Through her courage to speak publicly, she wants to encourage other women to also defend themselves against violence and show that they are not alone.

resources for those affected

For women who are affected by violence, various help offers are available in Austria. This includes the Frauenhelpline at 0800 222 555, the police under 133, and special advice centers. These contact points are crucial to offer the women concerned.

statistics show that more than 35 percent of women in Austria have been affected by physical or sexual violence since the age of 15. In addition, more than every fourth woman had to experience sexual harassment in the workplace and over 21 percent have experienced stalking. These figures make the relevance of the current campaign and the education of violence against women.

The SPÖ women are committed to changing the social standard, so that women no longer have to be ashamed of talking about their experiences. It is crucial that the shame no longer stays with the victims, but with the perpetrators.

These important topics and much more information can be found in the reports of the violence protection centers and the autonomous women's shelters in Austria.