Church of Sweden Mobilises Against Domestic Violence

“Those of us who work in the Church of Sweden must get better at recognising domestic violence so that we can provide the right support,” says Marit Norén, a priest and methods developer at the Central Church Office in Uppsala. In the various activities of the Church, we meet a great many people and have a unique opportunity to make a difference for those who are vulnerable.

Domestic violence and men’s violence against women are ubiquitous and occur regardless of cultural and religious affiliation, ethnicity, sexuality, social class and age.

“This is why we also need to have the courage to look inwards and realise that our managers and colleagues may also be affected,” says Marit Norén. Violence is also among us.

The Church of Sweden, on behalf of the General Synod, has now developed an online training programme to be offered to all employees. It will be launched on 25 November, which is also the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The programme includes films on domestic violence linked to the role and responsibilities of the Church of Sweden.

According to the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention, domestic violence affects both women and men, but women are much more likely to be victims. In Sweden, more than one in three women (35 percent) have experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives. One in ten children grow up in homes where violence occurs, according to the National Centre for Knowledge on Men’s Violence Against Women.

“While developing the programme, we have learned a lot from the government agencies and organisations already working on the issue,” says Marit Norén. “Now we want to add what the church does best – listening and supporting those seeking help, inspiring hope when things look dark and preventing violence by providing safe spaces for children and young people.” 

Facts

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women falls on 25 November each year and aims to raise awareness of violence against women and girls. The day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1999. Orange has become the symbolic colour of the day, representing a brighter future free of violence against women and girls.

Together with other social actors, the Church of Sweden has an important role to play in preventing violence by providing a space for safety, coherence and meaning.