EqualiZ urges more courage after suspected Villach femicide

The suspected killing of a 28-year-old woman in Villach was Austria’s 18th suspected femicide this year, ORF reported. The suspect has been in pretrial detention for two weeks and continues to deny any intention to kill. The association EqualiZ is calling for stronger violence prevention and greater public courage to intervene.

Christine Erlach of EqualiZ said the figures were distorted because femicide is still not recognised as a separate offence in Austrian law. She said sexism and misogyny were increasing in society, while victims were becoming younger.

According to a survey cited by the association, 57 percent of girls and young women reported experiencing violence in their first relationship. A further 41 percent said they had experienced psychological violence through social media.

The attack in the Villach case happened in a public place near the Drau bridge, while a large event was taking place nearby. Erlach said people witnessing aggressive behaviour should take a position and intervene, including by telling a man to stop at an early stage when he behaves abusively towards a woman. She stressed that this should always be done with personal safety in mind.

The location is known to investigators. Police are repeatedly called to the area, although mainly because of noise complaints or disturbances of public order. Erlach said stronger checks in public spaces were needed.

Through its “Neighbourhoods without partner violence” initiative, EqualiZ aims to raise awareness. A demonstration will take place in Villach on October 8 from 4 p.m.

According to the Information Centre Against Violence, femicide means the killing of women or girls because of their sex. The term highlights that many killings of women are not random but reflect structural inequality, patriarchal power relations and gender-based violence. Femicide is therefore considered a hate crime.