Politics Not enough protection for people affected by violence
The support available for people affected by violence in Switzerland is not sufficient to meet the increasing demand. The Federal Council is concerned about this situation, according to a Federal Council report published on Wednesday.
25.06.2025, 11:37
25.06.2025, 11:38
SDA
The number of women's shelters and beds in these facilities and in emergency shelters has increased in Switzerland since 2017, according to the Federal Council. Nevertheless, the growing demand means that there is not enough supply, resulting in long waiting times and rejections. Overloaded facilities, a lack of staff and accommodation that is not sufficiently tailored to the needs of people seeking protection.
Shelters and emergency accommodation are therefore more difficult to access for different groups of people, including young people, especially girls in transition to adulthood, people with disabilities or health problems, older people, men and LGBTIQ people. The availability of services varies greatly depending on the region, the report continued. There are also major differences within the regions, particularly between urban centers and outlying areas.
The report is based on a survey carried out by the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland and the Fribourg School of Social Work on behalf of the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Social Affairs (SODK). The Federal Council report fulfills a postulate of the National Council's Committee for Science, Education and Culture.
The Federal Council regrets that the SODK's recommendations from 2021 have only been partially implemented and that the goal of sustainable funding for women's shelters has not been fully achieved. It welcomes the SODK's decision to set up a working group to develop solid solutions for all Swiss regions. He also called on the cantons to continue their efforts.
For its part, the national government will continue the measures already underway at federal level. A revision of the Victim Assistance Act is currently in progress, it added.
