Graz expands its initiative against violence against children

“Mutmacher” was supposed to be an annual event but it has now turned into a permanent project

More than 30 years ago, on November 20, 1989, the UN adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This convention guarantees every child basic political, social, economic, cultural and civil rights. In 1989, violence in upbringing was banned in Austria.

“Nevertheless, the issue of violence in the family is unfortunately not a thing of the past. Some children are still affected by violence in their families or around them. This still occurs in all age groups, cultures and social classes," says Graz’s Education, Youth and Family Counsellor Kurt Hohensinner.

In this context, local authorities launched the “Mutmacher” (Encourager) campaign, to promote values and raise awareness of the problems that still plague society to this day. Thanks to the project’s success, the event is being turned from an annual happening into a constant project that will always be there for those that need it.

Embracing feedback and protecting citizens

The signature of Graz’s “Mutmacher” campaign is the small, cuddly creatures, the so-called “encouragers”, whose aim is to raise awareness of the issue and to make people of Graz aware of child protection. “It was originally planned as an annual project. Due to the overwhelmingly positive feedback, we have now decided to continue this project on a permanent basis. Improvement requests have now been incorporated into the second edition," says Hohensinner.

Through the campaign, local officials hope to bring attention and raise awareness for many other problems that continue to plague society – not only violence against children, but also domestic violence and stigmas surrounding the need to look and ask for help. Thanks to the “encouragers” both children and adults should more easily be able to find the courage and strength to ask for help in trying times as that is nothing to be ashamed of.