Abstract
In this chapter we discuss how StoP promotes gender equality as a key tool for preventing violence and encouraging communities to take action against domestic violence. We also look at the challenges that StoP faces, such as resistance from policy makers, social stigma and the difficulty of engaging men. We also outline strategies for overcoming these challenges, including public advocacy, building a social and economic case for the programme, and promoting inclusive dialogue. In addition, the chapter discusses the importance of community-led actions, such as workshops, campaigns and group activities, in raising visibility and making an impact. It emphasises the need for partnerships, consistent documentation and evaluation to track progress and ensure the long-term success of the initiative in inspiring collective responsibility to end domestic violence.
Competencies, Skills, Challenges, Perspectives
While other initiatives and projects are committed to peace policy or to climate policy, “StoP Domestic violence – Community matters!” is clearly and unequivocally committed to end violence against women and domestic violence. Addressing violence unequivocally and without hesitation, in writing and verbally, means taking a clear stance and position against domestic violence against women and trans, inter or non-binary. StoP is always on the side of those affected, so violence against women and children must not be generalized, concealed, devalued or trivialized. Those affected must have the feeling and trust that StoP utilises civil courage to reduce and prevent domestic violence. StoP does not deal with violence or crime in society in general; its focus is on domestic violence against women and their children, within the family, including partner violence.
With this clear stance, StoP work is not a self-starting type of work and must overcome resistance time and time again.
While other initiatives and projects are committed to peace policy or to climate policy, “StoP Domestic violence – Community matters!” is clearly and unequivocally committed to end violence against women and domestic violence. Addressing violence unequivocally and without hesitation, in writing and verbally, means taking a clear stance and position against domestic violence against women and trans, inter or non-binary. StoP is always on the side of those affected, so violence against women and children must not be generalized, concealed, devalued or trivialized. Those affected must have the feeling and trust that StoP utilises civil courage to reduce and prevent domestic violence. StoP does not deal with violence or crime in society in general; its focus is on domestic violence against women and their children, within the family, including partner violence.
With this clear stance, StoP work is not a self-starting type of work and must overcome resistance time and time again.
“I was just going to say that you have to keep reducing your inhibition. It's the same with a lot of things: the more you do it, the more confident you get. So it's an exercise. You know how to do it. And you gain a wealth of experience.”
Dealing with resistance
There may be resistance from political decision-makers or parts of the community where StoP is introduced or being established. Some may think or say that StoP deals with making domestic violence visible and this could damage the image or cast a bad light on the community. Here it is important to persuade these people and persevere with convincing arguments (see list of arguments below). It's important to compile a list of many good reasons why a municipality or city can benefit from StoP work, providing positive examples and success stories where StoP has made a positive effect. You can form alliances with other organizations or involve well-known neighbors as key people who may act as StoP champions to reinforce the success of StoP work.
A non-comprehensive list of pro-StoP arguments
StoP promotes social peace and cohesion
The fewer violent crimes there are in a community, the safer people feel. A community benefits when residents can live free of violence and fear, in public as well as in the private sphere. This is where StoP comes in and supports those who do not feel safe in their private lives.
StoP brings about political change
International examples show that community organising against violence against women can also influence political work. It is noteworthy that in various countries, community-based prevention strategies are seen as helpful and have even become part of national action plans, such as in New Zealand, Australia, Newfoundland or Cambodia.
StoP is neighbourly help
Many municipalities and cities now have neighbourhood assistance facilities that are particularly appreciated. Helping each other when families or people are in financial or social distress is not doubted, on the contrary, it is accepted and considered important. A community also benefits when neighbors take care of women and children who are victims of violence and no longer offer perpetrators a place in the community.
StoP is democracy in action
Communities that value and respect democracy and human rights also benefit from StoP. StoP promotes the participation and co-creation of fellow human beings, according to the slogan “everyone can make a contribution” and exercises civil courage against domestic violence.
StoP is a chance for men to get involved
Many men like to volunteer and are traditionally involved in fire brigades, rescue services, disaster relief and sports clubs. In StoP, men can also save lives, especially the lives of women and children affected by violence. With StoP work men can live and show positive role models of masculinity and motivate other men to join in.
Change takes time
StoP organisers and active neighbors, they want faster developments and effective changes, which is legitimate and very understandable. But violence against women is deeply rooted in our society. Change takes time and change is often associated with some hurdles and setbacks. Persistence and perseverance, pointing out the facts, will lead to partial successes.
Gender equality policy is violence prevention
Not all people involved in StoP community work are aware that violence against women is a structural problem and begins before there are signs of physical violence. Violence begins with discrimination and disadvantage. If women do not have the same opportunities as men, there will be no gender equality. This is why issues such as the gender pay gap, the pension gap, care work or precarious employment by and for women are particularly important in StoP community work.
Civil courage interventions
Not all neighbours have the courage to intervene, act and say something in a situation of domestic violence. StoP enables person to take up civil courage and to not be a silent bystander.
As a StoP organiser, it is important to know and communicate the legal situation regarding “failure to assist” in your specific community as some countries provide laws for bystanders.
Find professional StoP employees
Not all social workers ave sufficient experience in community organising or bring enough know-how in violence prevention and feminist work. A consequence could be not coping well or not knowing how to react. Regular continuing education, training and networking with experts and other institutions are therefore not only recommended, but a necessity. Topics such as the meaning and importance of feminism, women's rights, gender equality policy and women's political commitment bring enrichment, clarification and orientation in StoP work.
Men as allies of StoP
Victim support and violence prevention work has always been carried out mainly by women and women's organisations – whether voluntarily or full-time. However, violence against women is a men's problem. Many men’s attitudes and behavior are the cause and a big part of the problem. Therefore, in return, we need many committed men as allies to jointly solve and end the deeply-rooted patriarchal system of gender-based violence against women and trans, inter and non-binary. If the whole community is to be addressed, mixed-gender teams are needed in the long run.
At StoP, people have the chance and opportunity to show their commitment and feminist attitude and to work for an end to violence against women.
Listen to these insights from two of our stop trainees!
“I am always inspired when I see that a woman has heard about the StoP concept, knows other people who work at StoP, and leaves feeling empowered. Often that woman wants to come to the next session or meeting and I love it when that happens!”
The StoP community groups are diverse, and members may prefer focusing on their interests, such as crocheting, writing, or dancing, rather than directly addressing domestic violence. This is valid, as not everyone can or wants to be an activist, often for personal or protective reasons. However, this doesn’t mean they are uninterested in the topic. As a StoP organizer, you can integrate these interests into activism, like using crocheted items to support initiatives such as Roses Against Violence, where handmade roses are sold or displayed to raise awareness. Similarly, art exhibitions, writing workshops, choirs, or theater groups can spotlight domestic violence issues creatively.
If StoP’s presence feels stagnant, reinvigorate it with fresh ideas, such as hosting a talk with a notable figure or an author on domestic violence. Actions like Austria's “Monument Action”, where patriarchy symbols were wrapped in StoP flags, or organizing sports events like men’s runs against violence, can also spark renewed enthusiasm and engagement.
Signaling the Power of StoP Primary Prevention
The neighborhood may misunderstand StoP’s preventive approach, sometimes leading to resistance or accusations that it doesn’t directly help women. Activists must be ready to explain how StoP supports the community. There are numerous ways StoP helps. Albeit not being a direct aid organization but bridges gaps to local support services. Its low-threshold, outreach approach empowers women to seek help and provides accompaniment if needed. Men, including violent ones, are also encouraged to seek support. Neighborhood tables serve as empowerment hubs, and contact points like cafés or community centers provide basic information on victim services and perpetrator programs. Thats why StoP needs strong leadership, supported by a team to ensure stability during turnover, absences, or transitions. Sharing responsibilities and providing supervision for coordinators ensures sustainability. A resilient StoP structure relies on active members who can operate independently.
Communication and Common Language
Good communication with politicians and community partners is vital. Regular meetings, media appearances, and joint press events help strengthen political support. Collaboration between full-time StoP representatives and neighbors fosters a shared language and long-term partnerships.
Publicity is Crucial
Making domestic violence visible empowers women and deters perpetrators. Visible StoP flags, banners, and posters spread the message. A press officer and active community organizers amplify this impact, particularly in rural areas, showing solidarity and encouraging women to seek help.
Dos
After years of running StoP projects in Germany and Austria, we’ve gathered key insights to help guide your efforts and avoid common challenges.
Encourage Creativity
StoP is a “playground of creativity”. Everyone can contribute their skills, from organizing to small acts like distributing flyers. Every effort counts.
Empower Active Neighbors
Active neighbors are the heart of StoP, volunteering as part of their civic commitment to democracy and justice. Celebrate their contributions, attend their events, and ensure their efforts are valued. Tools like Tandem and Group Reflection can help foster their involvement.
Network for Success
Strong StoP work relies on networking at local, regional, and even international levels. Encourage activists to join these exchanges, like StoP Austria’s monthly online meetings or annual bilateral meetings between StoP Germany and Austria.
Adapt to All Neighborhoods
Domestic violence affects all communities, making StoP effective everywhere – urban or rural, affluent or working-class. StoP’s adaptability ensures its impact across diverse neighborhoods.
A Collaborative Learning Project
StoP is democracy in action, empowering citizens to bring lasting change. Even if funding lapses, StoP’s legacy remains, influencing communities long after activities pause.
Documentation: Measuring and Demonstrating Impact
Comprehensive documentation is essential for tracking StoP’s progress and demonstrating its impact. It serves as an internal tool for evaluating success, meeting the expectations of funding agencies, and showcasing results to stakeholders, funders, and the media. Effective documentation highlights how primary prevention efforts can drive substantial change when communities are actively involved.
The Importance of Structured Documentation
Structured documentation should begin at the launch of any StoP initiative. By systematically tracking goals, activities, and outcomes, StoP can demonstrate its effectiveness. Key metrics and outputs should be shared widely – through websites, social media, press releases, reports, and events – to enhance visibility and credibility.
The Austrian Example: A Practical Framework
In Austria, documentation is systematically recorded in an Excel spreadsheet, allowing StoP organizers to monitor activities across various categories by answering questions such as:
- Neighborhood Tables: How many were held? What topics were discussed? Were external speakers invited?
- Participation Metrics: How many people attended?
- Events: How many events or actions did StoP organize? How many external invitations did StoP receive?
- Trainings and Workshops: How many were conducted? What topics were covered?
- Lectures and Presentations: How many were offered? What subjects were addressed?
- Community Engagement: How many contacts or door-to-door conversations occurred?
- Networking: How much activity took place with project partners?
- Media and Visibility: How many media contacts were made? What was the reach on social media? How much interest was shown in StoP’s website?
- Distributed Materials: How many items (e.g., posters, flyers, banners) were disseminated?
- Internal Operations: How many internal meetings were held? Who participated?
- Remarkable Outcomes: This systematic approach has demonstrated StoP’s extensive impact. For instance, in Austria, documentation revealed that StoP reached 57,000 individuals directly or indirectly in a single year.
By answering these questions and maintaining detailed records, StoP not only enhances its operational effectiveness but also strengthens its ability to attract support, build trust, and showcase the transformative potential of community-based primary prevention.
Don'ts
Avoid Patronizing
StoP involves mindful listening and responding to domestic violence without making decisions for affected neighbors or acting against their will. Reports to authorities should only occur in cases of acute violence or imminent danger.
No Vigilantism
StoP opposes vigilante actions and authoritarian measures. Its approach prioritizes non-violence, equality, and reducing power imbalances, rejecting stereotypes like male protectors or passive female victims. Reporting must avoid judgment or blame, as control or denunciation fosters mistrust and discourages participation.
Police Collaboration with Boundaries
While police play a vital role in violence prevention, StoP must maintain independence to avoid appearing as an extension of law enforcement. This is crucial for building trust, particularly with marginalized communities.
Partisanship for Women
StoP aligns with victims of patriarchal violence, unlike the neutral stance required of police. Professional distance from police ensures StoP’s credibility and focus.
Non-Partisan Work
Domestic violence is a political issue but transcends party politics. StoP is independent, welcoming political support while avoiding co-optation or association with specific parties.
Maintain Corporate Identity
StoP’s colors – green for optimism and blue for clarity – must be carefully distinguished from political party associations. Clear communication ensures StoP remains seen as politically neutral.
Protest against femicides in Austria © Österreichischer Frauenring
StoP is non-commercial and not marketing
StoP must not be marketed as an advertising campaign but must make it clear that behind the logo and the colours blue and green there is a clear stance against violence against women and that those affected receive serious support. StoP must not lose its credibility.
StoP is Community Ownership
StoP relies on the voluntary commitment of active neighbors and the professional support of organizers. Organizers provide knowledge, supervision, and empowerment but do not lead actions. Activities should originate from and be carried out by the community itself.
Evaluation
There are internal and external evaluation options. If it is financially possible to commission an external evaluation, this is the highest standard for demonstrating StoP work. Evaluations can document the success and difference made, as international studies such as the Meta-study from Daniela Gloor and Hanna Meier and surveys show. Violence is even decreasing, and people are creating a strong awareness and rejecting violence.
In Austria, an external evaluation was carried out for the first three pilot years by the Institute for Conflict Research that was commissioned to evaluate “StoP – Neighborhoods without Partner Violence” in Margareten, in Vienna's 5th district, from January 1, 2019 to November 2021. See also chapter 2.3 Achievements.
Evaluation of Women's and Men's Tables
The evaluation primarily examined the impact and engagement of the Women's and Men's Tables, a core instrument of StoP's work in the Margareten district. Over three years, the pilot project completed all eight StoP action steps, progressing both cyclically and in parallel.
- Key Findings:The evaluation highlighted the significant mobilization and involvement of residents, who took ownership of StoP initiatives in their community. Their engagement extended into the political sphere, exemplified by:
- Political Action: The StoP women's group drafted a list of political demands and participated in demonstrations and rallies as a StoP collective.
- Recognition: Active StoP work during the first three years earned several awards, largely credited to the commitment of engaged neighbors.
Networking Opportunities
The awards and ceremonies provided additional platforms for networking, further enhancing StoP's community impact and strengthening its connections with broader political and social movements (see 3.1.8).
StoP receiving the prize for innovation by the federal chancellor and minister of social affairs of Austria, © Clemens Manser Photography
Results of the Evaluation in Vienna
The pilot project in Vienna's 5th district has proven to be a successful model in the implementation phase. This is demonstrated by the large number of activities performed and number of project partners in Margareten, but also by the high media presence.
Therefore, in 2021, the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection decided to roll out and finance StoP throughout Austria.
As a result, interest in StoP has gradually increased nationwide. There have been several inquiries from Viennese district leaders as well as from individual federal states and questions about how to join the project. In Austria there are StoP in 33 Places and its plant to extent to more than 40 Places in Austria until 2025.
StoP in Germany
StoP in Austria
One of the tools for violence prevention using a community approach is the implementation of women's (and men's and later on also all gender) “tables”. Initially we used the term 'kitchen tables' to emphasise the informal and welcoming character, but over time we dropped this as it seemed too private and could evoke gender stereotypes. The tables offer interested and committed people the opportunity to learn about domestic violence and to try out different ways of responding to it, so that they are empowered to act against domestic violence themselves and to support others in doing so.
The StoP women's table
We achieved the big breakthrough through the commitment of women The StoP women's table quickly established itself and worked well from the start. The women were very interested and motivated. They developed and carried out various activities of their own, which made the project well known in the neighbourhood. They were also willing to promote the project to a wider audience, for example by appearing in TV documentaries and radio programmes. Just as the courage to appear in public is evidence of the achievement of the StoP goal of “strengthening civil courage”, so the competent appearance is evidence of the achievement of the goal of “acquiring knowledge about violence”.
The number of participants has increased significantly over the three years. Not least due to the efforts of the women's group, which has been in existence from the very beginning and which has had a snowball effect, new people have joined.
The StoP men's table
Establishing the men's table was much more difficult. In the beginning, hardly any neighbours were involved, and until 2020, men's table meetings were repeatedly cancelled. In 2021, a reorientation took place after the existing difficulties were clearly addressed and the planned activities were broken down to a scale that the group itself could manage. The central problem of the men's table was the low response in the neighbourhood – the difference in the number of participants compared to the women's table was striking. On the one hand, this was to be expected and confirmed experiences already made in Germany, but on the other hand, it remained a challenge for the further expansion of StoP and, above all, for the urgently needed work with (potential) perpetrators. In the meantime, the work with men has developed satisfactorily in Austria. In Vienna 3 more male StoP organisers have been employed and in the provinces 5 more men have started to work with StoP.
Conclusion
During three years of the first StoP project in Austria, 61 women's tables were held, involving 141 neighbours and another 95 partners, i.e. a total of 236 women. In the first three years, 59 men's tables took place with 47 neighbours and other partners, which was a total of 109 participants. In all meetings, 428 active neighbours and 356 partners participated once or several times. This is a total of 784 participants for one StoP community who reached out to thousands of fellow residents in their neighborhood.
