25 November was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

According to Statistics Estonia, 41% of women in Estonia have experienced domestic abuse, including physical, psychological, or sexual violence. Although the number of individuals seeking help has significantly declined in recent years, there is an ongoing need for support.

The initiative aims to inspire collective understanding, with a particular emphasis on the vital role of bystanders. If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, seek help at www.palunabi.ee or call the victim support hotline: 116 006 (available 24/7, confidential and free). In case of emergencies, call 112.

Starting from Monday 25 November, an exhibition of relevant literature will be open on the third floor of the UT Library. Similar exhibitions are displayed in other libraries across Estonia. Hannaliisa Uusma, who is the Director of the Domestic Violence Prevention Programme at the President Kaljulaid Foundation and also a musician, has curated a Spotify playlist “Peidetud sõnumid” (“Hidden messages”), featuring iconic tracks by Estonian and international artists. In collaboration with the Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF), the foundation has highlighted a selection of films exploring the complexities of domestic abuse.

See the programme on the foundation’s webpage.