Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis was in Thessaloniki for an event focused on combating domestic violence. Before the event began, he spoke about the improvements that government policies have brought to this sensitive area.

“We will continue our efforts to fight violence. Domestic violence is a tragic social problem that, unfortunately, affects thousands of families, thousands of women victims, thousands of children victims of abusers. We are here today to say that our policies are yielding results. Our policies are effective. Every year, we are achieving better outcomes; every year, we are more effective and closer to the victims. I want to call on all women, all children, every person experiencing violence, to report abuse, to break the silence, to not be afraid. We are here, and we will protect you,” the Minister of Citizen Protection said.

The event is part of the initiative “Together We Break the Silence. 13 Cities: One Front Against Domestic Violence,” under the auspices of the President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos An. Tasoulas.

“In a few days, on November 25th, it will be the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. In this context, today, here in Thessaloniki, the event focuses on policies implemented against violence targeting women. As you well know, unfortunately, violence is increasing in many aspects of our social life. Earlier, I saw drawings made by very young children from primary schools—near where Alkis Kampanos lived—which reminded us all of a very violent and bloody incident. Violence is spreading everywhere, across the planet and in our country. It is an issue that concerns us as a family, as a school, as policymakers, as a nation, and as Greek society as a whole. We must fight it with all the means at our disposal—and we have many,” Chrysochoidis said.

“And today, the Hellenic Police is here to assure Greek citizens that we will continue our efforts to combat violence. Domestic violence remains a tragic social problem affecting thousands of families, thousands of women victims, and thousands of children victims of abuse. And we are here to say that our policies work. Our policies deliver results. Every year, our outcomes improve, we become more effective, and we stand closer to the victims. This year alone, nearly 13,000 arrests have been made as the year draws to a close,” the Minister of Citizen Protection continued.

He added, “I want to call on all women, all children, and every person suffering violence, to report abuse, to break the silence, to not be afraid. We are here and we will protect you.”