16 Voices against violence against women

16 women from Northwestern Switzerland raise their voices against violence against women. Beat John, Managing Director of Opferhilfe beider Basel, explains in an interview how it was possible to recruit personalities for the project. And what it will take in future to protect women from violence.

During the international campaign “16 days of action against violence against women”, Opferhilfe beider Basel is showing video messages from 16 women. What do women have to tell us?

An incredible amount. They are clear votes, concerns, wishes and appeals. Peppered with personal experiences and stories. And you can sense that the women know exactly what they are talking about and who they are doing it for.

Which statements particularly touched you?

I was there for the recordings. And I have experienced how important it is to women that all women are doing well. There was a great deal of genuine empathy and identification with women. And I also realized how well the women can imagine the pain and suffering that violence can cause people. Some of them know this from their own experience. These visits to the women and the conversations were one of the most touching things I have been able to do in my many years of work.

Many of the women taking part are well-known beyond the borders of Northwestern Switzerland, such as celebrity chef Tanja Grandits, professional tennis player Joanne Züger and actress Sarah Spale. How were the women selected?

It was important to us to show as much versatility as possible. We initially listed this versatility without names, for example a musician, a young and a very experienced woman, a Muslim woman, a trans woman, a manager. And then I was very surprised at how quickly our employees added concrete suggestions to the list.

How did the women react to the request?

The first three requests came to nothing. There was no response. That made me think a bit. But then one request after another worked out. For me personally, that was one of the highlights of the whole event. The women who were approached accepted spontaneously – without thinking twice. I was extremely impressed. They unanimously said that they would like to get involved for women and for such an important topic.

What effect do you expect the campaign to have?

As a father, I’ve found that children don’t always appreciate their parents’ advice. As a teacher, the same applies to tips for pupils. But within the peer group, at eye level, from woman to woman: that’s something else. People need that, recommendations, wishes, encouragement, statements about personal concerns. The me-too movement also shows this. I am convinced that the women’s messages and statements will be heard. And that is an important contribution to raising awareness and prevention.

What else is needed to protect women from violence?

The same commitment and understanding from the men.