Violence on women: Orange flag as a sign of change in Linz

Violence on women: Orange flag as a sign of change in Linz

In Austria, every fifth woman is affected by violence, an alarming fact that leads to the annual campaign "16 days against violence against women". This campaign, which takes place from November 25th to December 10th, has the goal of raising awareness of this serious topic. At the start of this initiative, the orange flag is raised in front of the country house. This symbol is intended to commemorate the importance of discussion about violence of women and encourage people to become active.

The figures of the support offers illustrate the extent of the problem: In the previous year, the Upper Austria Violence Protection Center looked after around 3,700 people, with 78 percent of them being women. Governor Thomas Stelzer and Women's Councilor Christine Haberlander emphasize the need to expand the infrastructure for those affected. "Violence on women is the ugliest side of our society," explains Stelzer and warns that such acts of violence can take place in every environment. In order to be able to meet these challenges better, structural changes must be made.

expansion of women's shelters and protective accommodation

A central concern is the expansion of women's shelters and protective accommodation. By the end of 2025, at least 180 additional places are to be created across Austria. A total of 12 million euros are available for this, with Upper Austria receiving 1.9 million euros. In the existing transition apartments, the number of places for women and children will increase significantly: from 11 to 20 for women and from 21 to 33 for children.

• Rohrbach: March 2024
• Eferding: October 2024
• Schärding: at the end of 2024
• Wels-Land: At the end of 2024
• Grieskirchen: late 2024
• Traun: August 2024
• Urfahr-environment: Planning for a transitional apartment

The capacity of the women's shelters is also increased. There are currently 127 places, including 47 for women and 80 for children. In the future, an offer of 163 places (59 women and 104 children's places) will be available to those affected. In addition, replacement construction projects for existing facilities are planned.

Violence prevention and protection of violence

To combat violence on women, preventive measures are essential. The NO GO campaign shows through posters in swimming pools and other advertising material how important the education is on this topic. Information is provided in 13 languages ​​to reach a broader public. At the same time, there are offers such as online advice on the website Frauenberatung-Oee.at that guarantees anonymous and data-proof psychosocial and legal support.

The Upper Austria Violence Protection Center is also available to those affected by offering advice and support in the process. The initiative, which includes 23 women's associations in Upper Austria, ensures that girls and women can get help in difficult situations. In addition, programs in schools actively support violence prevention.

For affected women and girls who need help, there are numerous free and anonymous hotlines, including the police call 133 and the women's helplines at 0800 222555. These points of contact offer the necessary backing in difficult situations and can be reached around the clock. It is important that women know where to find help and that they are not alone. The support is diverse and accessible, which brings hope to the situation.