New Swiss National Hotline For Domestic Violence Victims To Launch After Delays

The launch of the hotline for victims of domestic violence, a short-dial service on the number 142, had been delayed for technical reasons at a time when the number of feminicides is rising.

In 2025, 22,066 violence-related offences were recorded, an increase of 4.4% on the previous year, said the head of the Valais cantonal government Matthias Reynard, who is also president of the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Social Affairs.

“With this [short-dial] number, immediate and permanent access to assistance is guaranteed,” said Reynard. The hotline, which will operate 24 hours a day, will be managed at the cantonal level. Staff have been trained, and minimum standards are guaranteed in every canton, Justice Minister Beat Jans said.

Reynard, Jans and other officials addressed the press on Monday to mark five years since the cantons and the Confederation launched an initiative to combat domestic and sexual violence.

This content was published on Nov 29, 2024 Authorities and civil society are looking for ways to deal with gender-based violence. Are these initiatives having an impact? Join the discussion.