Non -violent world of work: demand for protection for women in the workplace

Non -violent world of work: demand for protection for women in the workplace

In the region of Southwest Styria, the ÖGB regional women's chairman Sigrid Riegler raises its voice against the widespread violence against women, especially at work. It emphasizes in emphasis that attacks in any form are not acceptable and that employers are legally obliged to protect their employees from physical and psychological violence.

Riegler points out that reality is often different: Many women are not sufficiently protected from sexual assault and bullying at work. Her statements are alarming, because according to reports, every fourth woman in Austria has had experience with sexual harassment at work. It appeals to companies to take effective measures for violence prevention and to comply with their duty of care.

right to non -violent working environment

A crucial point in Riegler's speech is the right of women to a non -violent working world. It demands that affected women to be encouraged to contact works councils, unions or advice centers in order to break the silence through attacks. This is particularly relevant because Ilo Convention 190, which was ratified under pressure from ÖGB and AK, provides for a worldwide right to a non-violent working environment.

mental violence is often considered the first stage of dangerous spiral of violence that can end in physical violence. Riegler criticizes the reactions that many women experience when they entrust themselves to someone: their experience is often trivialized and they are labeled with words like "crazy" or "hysterically". Such reactions can lead to long -term psychological damage, including anxiety, post -traumatic stress disorders and depression.

particularly endangered professional groups

Studies show that certain professions have a higher risk of sexual harassment and bullying. These include care and care facilities, hospitals, social services, but also gastronomy and trading companies. These areas are often shaped by a toxic working atmosphere in which women are exposed to special dangers.

For improving the situation, the ÖGB women actively campaign for a self-determined and non-violent life. Riegler emphasizes that secured training and income opportunities are urgently needed for women. In addition to financial resources to support women's shelters and advice centers, she also demands additional employees in victim protection, since the need is clearly above the existing capacities.

The international campaign "16 days against violence against women" takes place annually from November 25th to December 10th and offers a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of different forms of violence and to develop solutions to combat this problem. Riegler explains that the ÖGB supports these measures comprehensively and emphasizes the importance of the campaign to combat attacks in the workplace.