Men in Luxembourg are now protected
Mario Heller, Unsplash
On 1 December 2024, infoMann (ActTogether ASBL) launched a new Service for Male Victims of Domestic Violence (SAVVD). This is a significant step for Luxembourg, recognising the need for targeted support for men in difficult life situations.
Equality Minister Juriko Backes said, "This launch is an important milestone in our work to support victims of violence, including men." SAVVD-infoMann will complement the existing support network already provided by SAVVD, which is run by Femmes en détresse and is primarily aimed at women.
Domestic violence affects everyone, regardless of gender, and a new programme offers men access to psychological, legal and administrative support.
Ahead of the launch, on 22 November, as part of International Men's Day, infoMann also unveiled "Real Men?", a travelling exhibition aimed at redefining stereotypes about masculinity. The exhibition and the new service emphasise the need to break down prejudice against male victims of violence.
The service continues the mission of its predecessor, SAVVD, established in 2003. SAVVD-infoMann will:
- Counselling men who have experienced violence;
- Assist in drawing up a personal defence plan;
- provide assistance in legal and administrative matters;
- support men and their children in difficult life situations.
In addition, the SAVVD-infoMann will work closely with other institutions such as the police, the prosecutor's office and the Riicht Eraus to coordinate protection measures.
InfoMann, founded in 2012, is already actively working with men and boys in crisis, providing not only counselling but also educational programmes and housing.
