The OSCE Mission and the Kosovo Police launched a joint campaign against domestic violence today to raise awareness of the problem and help to prevent it more effectively.

The campaign will see billboards placed throughout Kosovo, along with TV spots and debates. These efforts are part of the global efforts to mark “16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence”.

The campaign’s main message – “One slap is violence; Violence is a crime” – underlines that domestic violence is both a human rights violation and a crime, even if it happens inside the family. Though it may start with smaller acts of violence, it can even lead to a fatal outcome.

The campaign calls on victims and witnesses to report possible cases to the police. It also aims to promote a zero-tolerance policy for domestic violence in all spheres of society.

“Domestic violence keeps taking its toll on families, especially women and girls. We need to see robust and consistent action from service providers. So anyone experiencing or witnessing violence should start by calling the police and reporting it,” said Michael Davenport, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.

“We can all play our part. Regardless of whether you are a victim or a witness, report violence as soon as you see it,” he added.

“Cases of domestic violence are sensitive and violence does not stop without having it reported or dealt with by the competent authorities. The Kosovo Police is committed to preventing domestic violence as a precondition to a strong and healthy society,” said Samedin Mehmeti, General Director of the Kosovo Police.