There are many types of violence.
Violence is a crime in Switzerland.
No type of violence is okay.
Are you experiencing violence? Or have you seen someone being violent?
Here’s what you can do:
Contact a member of AOZ staff.
Or find a counselling centre here.
What is a counselling centre?
- A counselling centre is an independent institution that you can go to.
- There are different types of counselling centres. Some counselling centres specialise in certain topics (violence in marriage, forced marriage, etc.). Other counselling centres cater for a certain group of people (women, LGBTI* people, etc.) Below is a list of counselling centres.
- You can talk about what you are experiencing and discuss what could help you. You will be supported in whatever steps come next.
- If required, the counselling centres can arrange an interpreter.
- The counselling sessions are free and confidential. We do not discuss what is said or happens in the sessions with anyone.
Crime Victim Support Service (Servizio per l'aiuto alle vittime di reati)
Counselling for men, women, trans people, children and youths affected by violence
WebsiteSupport Service for Forced Marriage (Istituto specializzato Matrimonio forzato)
Counselling for victims of forced marriage
WebsiteNetwork against female genital mutilation (Rete contro le mutilazioni genitali femminili)
Counselling for victims of female genital mutilation
WebsiteQueeramnesty Switzerland
Counselling for LGBTI people suffering homophobic or transphobic violence
WebsiteThe Centre for the Prevention of Discrimination (Centro per la prevenzione delle discriminazioni)
Counselling for victims of racism and discrimination
WebsiteMore information resources
Would you like more information on the subject of violence?
Do you need help finding the right counselling centre?
This is where you can get information and support, where possible in your native language:
Telephone against violence (Telefono contro la violenza)
weekend hotline for women affected by violence
WebsiteAOZ Complaints Offices
Complaints against AOZ staff
Have you been subjected to violence from an AOZ staff member?
Have you been insulted or intimidated?
Do you feel sexually harassed by an AOZ staff member? You can register complaints here: