Frauke Ludowig
Violence in partnerships must not be a taboo subject
Frauke Ludowig draws attention to the problem of domestic violence.
© YSL Beauty
Frauke Ludowig sets an example. The moderator wants to ensure that violence in partnerships is no longer a taboo subject.
The number of cases of domestic violence has increased worldwide in times of Corona. Many women live in a limited space with a violent partner during the imposed lockdown and find it more difficult to seek help from professional organizations, friends, relatives or colleagues. As early as spring 2020, the #sicherheitheim initiative raised awareness of the problem of violence against women with a major campaign.
The Yves Saint Laurent Beauty brand is also directing the focus on the topic with its “Love without violence” initiative and has entered into a partnership with #sicherheitheim. Prominent supporters of the campaign include actress Emilia Schüle (28) and presenter Frauke Ludowig (57). “We can all play a part in raising awareness of violence in partnerships,” explains Ludowig in an interview.
Ms. Ludowig, how has awareness of the issue of violence against women changed in your eyes since the #SAFE campaign in spring 2020?
Frauke Ludowig: Fortunately, there are now a lot of campaigns on the subject and thanks to the presence of the great participants and their commitment, the subject has really picked up speed. Nonetheless, we wouldn’t talk about it any further if it wasn’t still a very relevant topic. That is why one cannot draw attention to this problem often enough!
What was the decisive factor for you in supporting the continuation of the #SAFE HOME initiative together with YSL Beauty?
Ludowig: We got off to an extremely successful start, so it was a matter of course for me to continue to be there and to support #SAFE. Through the partnership with YSL Beauty and the communication of the nine warning signs of violence in partnerships, the campaign has also got a new twist. It’s no longer just about awareness, but also about prevention – I think that’s great. I am convinced that together we can achieve even more.
This year the focus of the “Love without violence” campaign is on raising awareness and changing the situation in a positive way. What is the core of the campaign?
Ludowig: Definitely prevention and education work! Current research shows that intimate partner violence is often associated with early warning signs. The sooner these signs are recognized, the faster those affected can seek help and get out of the situation. Together with international NGOs and experts, nine warning signs were defined. The aim is to recognize signs of an abusive partnership at an early stage, because violence often develops slowly and is not part of the relationship from the start. The warning signs are really impressive and explain quickly and easily what is important. Frequently, violence is only associated with physical or sexual violence and not factors such as isolation or jealousy. But violence can begin here too. Especially when it comes to jealousy, I can well imagine that this is often confused with love. But you have to deal with the topic in order to become aware of it. The more people know the nine warning signs, the better we can all play a part.
What exactly is your commitment and what do you want to achieve with it?
Ludowig: The campaign should generate further attention and bring the topic to the general public. I would like to support wherever I can. The start was made with a digital press conference broadcast on April 21st. I talked to great guests, including Nadine Klein, who is also an ambassador and gave very personal insights into the topic, which not only touched and roused me. I want to talk about it and make sure that intimate partner violence is no longer a taboo subject.
What can those affected or their relatives do if they experience / observe violence in partnerships?
Ludowig: First and foremost, it’s about showing understanding and offering help. How help and support look in concrete terms can vary from case to case. For some people it helps to be able to confide in someone and receive emotional support, others need help with childcare in order to be able to go to a counseling center. Under no circumstances should you put those affected under pressure or consciously distance yourself. There are many advice centers that can help and now also offer their services online. Find out more and pass the information on to those affected.
Have you ever witnessed intimate partner violence yourself?
Ludowig: No, luckily I didn’t have this experience. But through the campaign, I was once again sensitized to this topic and I want to stand up for others.