HAIP (Germany) and ATA (Austria): an overview of their special methodology to affront mediation in cases of violence against women

Abstract

In Austria and Germany specialized intervention programmes have adapted the classic principles of penal mediation in order to work with domestic violence cases. This adaptation means introducing changes in several aspects: the duration of the sessions and intervention times, the support of both parts at the moment of presenting their interests, the incorporation of result controls and of the indirect (shuttle) mediation, the incorporation of probation periods and of balance dialogs… In this poster will be presented some aspects of the practical execution of the programs: those related to the proceedings orientated to correct the power imbalances and reinforce the position of the disadvantaged part (empowerment strategies), particularly the incorporation of two mediators (a man and a woman) and the coordination with the institutions and agencies that can offer the “resources” that are necessary to reinforce the social links of the victim inside the community.