First Czech Centre For Victims of Sexual Violence Opens In Prague

The first specialized center for victims of sexual violence in the Czech Republic, built by the proFem organization, was officially opened in Prague yesterday, and will start operating on 22 January.

The PORT centre in the Prague-Brevnov district will offer crisis assistance, treatment, counselling and therapy, and is equipped with a crisis apartment.

In the Czech Republic, 54% of women have experienced sexual harassment or sexual violence, according to a recent survey, the detailed results of which ProFem will publish in February.

According to the commissioner, over 900 cases of rape were reported to the police last year, the highest number on record.

At the centre, victims will receive crisis assistance and will be offered psychotherapy and social and legal counselling. Basic treatment will be available as well as the collection and preservation of genetic samples for possible provision of evidence and legal representation.

The surgery will start operating at the end of February. There will also be a room for possible police questioning, and a crisis apartment to be available from April or May.

The services are for people over 16, for women, but also for men, who make up 8 to 10% of proFem’s clients. The centre’s staff are women only.

A total of CZK 18 million is needed for the annual operation of the centre. The organisation does not yet have the full amount, so is rolling out the services gradually.

The state and local governments have approved subsidies, and the centre is also receiving money from donors and grants. The money for the centre opening was provided by Norway Grants.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs is preparing an amendment on social services to set up the funding.

According to a recent report by the Women Against Violence Europe (WAVE) network, services for victims of sexual violence are not available in the Czech Republic; there is no help center and no crisis line.