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Description
The Scout Association of Slovenia is the national scout association that operates in line with the purpose, principles and methods of the World Organization of the Scout Movement.
When our organization learned about the report of suspected criminal offense against the sexual integrity of minors, we were faced with one of the most difficult crisis situations for a youth organization. We wanted to respond professionally and respectfully while protecting and supporting our most vulnerable members. Our guiding principle was informing all key stakeholders and the public as well as maintaining the highest level of protection of the privacy of minor victims.
In the pursuit of the most professional and professional response possible, we contacted the Urednica company, which specializes in crisis management and communication in situations that are the most difficult for organizations, as well as the Heruka institute, which provides psychological services and training. With the support of these experts, our organization wanted to respond to the crisis in a way that would allow us to present to the public the measures taken upon learning about the suspected criminal offence against the sexual integrity of minors, while at the same time maintaining the highest level of protection of the privacy of minor victims as well as preserving the trust of our members and the general public. At the same time, it is important for us that we provide psychological and social support to all the people involved, strengthen the supporting environment with zero tolerance for violence and clearly put the protection and interests of victims first.
We want to share our experience with other non-governmental organizations and other organizations working with children and young people. This is because our ultimate goal is to strengthen zero tolerance for violence in society in the long run and to put the protection and interests of victims first.
Summary of project results
An important challenge is how to strengthen zero tolerance for violence in society, especially sexual violence, through appropriate response and communication and to place the protection and interests of victims first.
We have established a system that will sustainably enable the education of our staff for zero tolerance of violence, quick and clear reporting procedures for any deviations, and a systematic approach to action and communication in the event of deviations. We have strengthened victims and other affected parties through supportive conversations and psychological workshops.
With this approach, we have contributed to awareness-raising and promoted zero tolerance for violence in society, as this is how we create a safe environment for young people.