Karin Wien: 30 years for women's rights - a life's work in combating violence!

Karin Wien: 30 years for women's rights - a life's work in combating violence!

Karin Wien: A pioneer in the fight against violence

Karin Wien from Güstrow is a remarkable personality who has been fighting tirelessly to protect women and children from domestic violence for over 30 years. On September 17, she was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit by Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig, an honor that Vienna initially thought was a joke. Another highlight of her impressive career came on Friday when she received the Silver Medal of Honor from the Rostock district. These awards represent her major contribution to the women's welfare system in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

In the 1990s, Vienna began her journey as one of the first to shape the establishment of women's shelters in the region. In 1991 she was employed as an employee of the equal opportunities officer in Güstrow to set up a women's shelter, which opened a year later. As early as December 1991, the first woman and her five children found protection in the newly founded house. Vienna managed the Güstrow women's shelter until May 2019 and also trained employees from other facilities in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Challenges in everyday life

It is noteworthy that the women's shelter is run by a small association called Arche, which only has eleven members. However, the difficulties the team faces are great. A significant amount of work, including on-call services and care for vulnerable women without financial resources, remains unfunded. This problem is made even worse by the closure of the only advice center for those affected by violence in Bad Doberan, which had to close on July 1st due to a loss of funds.

However, the challenges are not just financial. The number of cases of domestic violence has increased significantly in recent years, with the majority of those affected being women. This sad reality also has an impact on society's perception, because in Vienna's time, domestic violence was often not recognized as a crime - a situation that has fortunately now changed.

The women's shelter itself offers a safe haven for women and children who have been victims of physical, sexual or psychological violence. It is a crisis facility that provides protected, anonymous housing as well as psychosocial advice and support. Admission is possible around the clock, which means that women can receive help quickly in acute emergency situations.

Support for those affected

The offer includes a total of 20 places in one- or two-room apartments in which women can organize their everyday lives independently. The residents are instructed to take care of themselves and their children. Important documents that should be brought with you upon admission include your children's identity card, birth certificates and, if necessary, vaccination certificates. This ensures that every woman receives the support she needs.

Access to the women's shelter is independent of religion, nationality and regional origin, which is an important aspect of inclusion. Even after they move out, the women have the opportunity to receive support and advice. The aim is to promote the ability and personal responsibility of those affected.

Additional help in dealing with domestic violence is also available through other services. In every federal state there are women's advice centers and bff women's emergency hotlines that offer personal and telephone advice. These institutions are not only committed to providing direct support, but also at a social and political level to strengthen women's rights and combat violence.

For those who have experienced a life crisis or are suffering from domestic violence, it is important to know: there is help! In Güstrow and elsewhere, doors are open to give women and children security and strengthen their voices. Karin Wien has laid the foundation with her tireless efforts, and the offers she initiated can be a ray of hope for many.

The Güstrow women's shelter is available for help and support on 03843 683186. Don't leave yourself alone, every step counts!

Northern Courier, Arche e.V. and Women against violence offer further information and support.