As of January 1, the Protection Code for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse (HGKM) has officially been implemented in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. This new regulation not only provides professionals with tools to recognize and tackle violence but also emphasizes the important role of citizens in creating a safe and caring society.
The Role of Citizens in Recognizing Unsafe Situations
Everyone can contribute to preventing and addressing domestic violence and child abuse. Citizens play a crucial role by recognizing and discussing signs of unsafe situations. In relatively small, close-knit communities like Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, people see and know each other. It becomes noticeable when someone is not feeling well or when there may be unsafe situations at home. Since it can be difficult to take action in a small community, the Advice and Reporting Center for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse (AMHK) focuses primarily on advice and support. Citizens can come here with questions about signs of violence or abuse and receive advice on how to help.
In What Situations Can Advice Help?
The Advice and Reporting Center is there for anyone who has doubts or concerns about the personal safety of others. For example, if you notice that an elderly family member is dependent on someone elses care but frequently shows signs of fear. It could also be that a neighbor tells you he is being constantly controlled by his partner and has no access to his own money. Perhaps a friend with a disability confides in you that a caregiver is yelling at them and threatening punishment.
Other examples include when you often hear shouting from a family nearby and you are worried about the children, or when a female colleague tells you she is being physically abused by her partner but is afraid to seek help. In all these situations, the Advice and Reporting Center can help with practical tips and next steps to support someone or make the situation discussable.
Contacting the Advice and Reporting Center
On each island, there is an Advice and Reporting Center where citizens and professionals can go. In Bonaire, this is the Guiami Advice and Reporting Center at Sentro Akseso, reachable at phone number 0802 0802. In Sint Eustatius, people can contact the Social Support Units at the Public Body Sint Eustatius (OLE) via +599 318 4837. For residents of Saba, the Department of Community Development & Culture at the Public Body Saba (OLS) is available at +599 416 6936 or +599 416 3053. In extreme or dangerous situations, one should always call the police.
The Advice and Reporting Center is always ready to answer questions and provide support. By recognizing signs and taking action, we all contribute to a safe and caring society in the BES islands.