Switzerland authorities address rising sexual violence and digital risks

Authorities in Switzerland are intensifying efforts to combat sexual violence, addressing both physical and digital threats. In Valais, the Cantonal Police, in collaboration with the Department of Education, Health Promotion Valais, and the Declick association, have launched “Deepsafe.” This interactive web application is designed to educate adolescents, parents, and caregivers about digital risks, including the sending of nude images, sextortion, deepfakes, and grooming. The tool aims to explain the Swiss legal framework and provide guidance on appropriate behavior in digital spaces.

In St. Gallen, the Cantonal Police’s Threat and Risk Management department held a specialist conference to coordinate prevention and support efforts among authorities, schools, and counseling centers. Officials noted a rise in demand for emergency assistance. The sexual violence emergency helpline reported 69 individuals seeking help so far this year, compared to 69 last year by the same period, highlighting a continuous need for immediate, 24-hour support that operates independently of police reports.