The symposium focused on the strategies used by perpetrators of sexual violence. Elke Karle and Uwe Fischer from the Silberdistel e. V. counseling center shared practical insights into how perpetrators build trust, push boundaries, and deliberately circumvent protective mechanisms.
Knowledge is the foundation of effective prevention
A central goal of the symposium was to raise participants’ awareness of potential perpetrator strategies. This is because these strategies are not only directed against individual children and adolescents but can also be aimed at circumventing the protective mechanisms of an entire institution.
In his opening remarks, Vavouras, Head of Social Affairs, emphasized the shared responsibility for child protection: “Child protection also begins when people take responsibility, remain vigilant, and seek support when in doubt.” He encouraged volunteers to take warning signs seriously, ask questions, and seek professional support when needed. Citing Albert Schweitzer, he underscored the importance of every individual’s contribution: “The little you can do is a lot.”
Putting Protection Policies into Practice in Everyday Club Life
Another key focus was the importance of protection policies. They help clubs identify risks, clarify responsibilities, and establish binding rules for how members interact with one another. It is crucial that a safety policy not only exist on paper but be put into practice in the day-to-day life of the club. A culture of mindfulness, vigilance, and shared responsibility is an essential building block for effectively protecting children and adolescents.
In addition to the expert presentations, information booths offered the opportunity to learn about support services and talk with experts.
Child Protection Quality Seal Awarded
Another highlight of the program was the presentation of the Child Protection Quality Seal. For the third time, the district honored clubs, associations, and church congregations that are committed to protecting children and adolescents. The award recognizes the organizations’ dedication and highlights their efforts in child protection.
In addition, the Child Protection Coordination Office provided information on the future renewal process for the Quality Seal. The newly developed criteria are intended to help clubs continuously improve their child protection work. The focus is not on meeting as many formal requirements as possible, but rather on how child protection is actually put into practice within each organization. The district also supports clubs by offering funding opportunities for individual child protection training sessions.
“The positive response shows how important it is to support volunteers in their responsible work. After all, child protection must never be left to chance. It requires knowledge, clear structures, and people who pay attention and take responsibility,” says Vavouras.
