SOS-Kinderdorf to launch international study into history of abuse

SOS-Kinderdorf Austria has announced an international scientific study to investigate the organization's history and allegations of abuse. The two-year research project, which begins on November 1, will examine the roles of founder Hermann Gmeiner and his successor, Helmut Kutin, and their influence on the organization.

The investigation will focus on power and dependency structures, potential networks of perpetrators and accomplices, and mechanisms used to conceal cases of violence and abuse. The study aims to identify which institutional structures allowed abuse to occur and prevented its discovery.

In a departure from previous actions where results of local studies were kept private, SOS-Kinderdorf has promised to publish the findings. The research will involve Austria, Germany, and other countries. An international scientific jury will select the research team, which will be supported by an independent advisory board consisting of experts and “care leavers” (individuals with experience in residential youth care).