On the European Awareness Day on Violence Against Doctors and Other Healthcare Workers, 12 March, the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) released a video message from its President, Dr Ole Johan Bakke, highlighting the urgent need to address violence in healthcare settings across Europe.
Violence against healthcare workers remains a serious and growing problem throughout Europe. According to the World Health Organization, one in three doctors and nurses reports having experienced intimidation or threats of violence in the workplace over the past year. Healthcare professionals exposed to violence, harassment, and bullying also report up to twice the rate of mental health problems.
CPME has previously brought the voice of European doctors to the European Parliament through the Doctors’ Voice campaign, raising awareness among policymakers about the scale and consequences of violence in healthcare.
CPME calls for stronger measures to prevent violence against healthcare workers, including:
- strengthening prevention and awareness programmes,
- establishing effective reporting systems and support for victims,
- ensuring consistent enforcement of existing legislation that protects healthcare workers in the workplace.
Violence must never be considered part of the profession. Healthcare workers must be able to carry out their duties in a safe and respectful working environment.