LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA — As part of the ongoing efforts to foster safe, respectful, and inclusive healthcare environments, the Working Group for the Prevention of Violence within the Nurses and Midwives Association of Slovenia has made significant strides throughout 2026. Aligning closely with the overarching mission of the EU-co-funded BRAVE-WOW project, the working group has spearheaded a series of high-impact national and international initiatives. From disseminating specialised safety guidelines nationwide to engaging directly with top-level policymakers at the National Assembly, these actions mark a critical step forward in addressing workplace bullying, psychological abuse, and third-party violence. By actively training healthcare leaders and driving institutional change, the association is helping to turn the vision of a zero-tolerance culture in healthcare into a reality on the ground.
International Symposium on the Prevention of Workplace Violence (14 May 2026)
Members of the Working Group for the Prevention of Violence in nursing and midwifery actively participated in an international symposium, where we presented several professional contributions on the topic of workplace bullying and psychological violence in the health care workplace. Special attention was given to the role of bystanders and employers in identifying, preventing, and addressing psychological violence among employees.
During the roundtable discussion, we contributed to the exchange of experiences regarding various forms of psychological support for victims of violence and assistance provided to employees following critical incidents.
Dissemination of Guidelines for the Prevention of Violence Against Nurses in Community Nursing Services:** (21 April 2026)
On 21 April 2026, we successfully presented a Guidelines for the Prevention of Violence Against Nurses in Community Nursing Services:** good practice example to all heads of community nursing services in Slovenia, thereby disseminating recommendations and guidelines for the prevention of workplace violence across all community nursing services nationwide.
This activity represents an important step towards a unified approach to violence prevention and the creation of a safer working environment for community nurses.
Workshop on the Implementation of Violence Prevention Guidelines in Community Nursing (June 2026)
During the second week of June 2026, we presented a good practice example and conducted a workshop on the implementation of the Guidelines for the Prevention of Violence in Community Nursing at a meeting of 32 professional sections and 11 regional association presidents.
The objective of this activity was to further disseminate knowledge, strengthen leadership competencies, and encourage the systematic implementation of preventive measures within healthcare organisations.
Participation in the Ministry of Labour Conference on Third-Party Violence (11 June 2026)
On 11 June 2026, the Working Group for the Prevention of Violence actively participated in a conference organised by the Ministry of Labour, dedicated to violence perpetrated by third parties. Representatives of the Working Group took part in a roundtable discussion and delivered a professional presentation on the de-escalation of aggressive behaviour by patients and their relatives.
Through these activities, we continue to raise awareness, provide education, and strengthen the safety of healthcare professionals within the healthcare system.
Professional Consultation at the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia (7 December 2026)
We have received official confirmation of the date for a professional consultation to be held at the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia on 7 December 2026. The central theme of the event will be the prevention of workplace violence in healthcare, with particular emphasis on violence perpetrated by patients, relatives, and other healthcare service users. Representatives of the new Government of the Republic of Slovenia, particularly the Minister of Health, will be invited to participate. Through expert contributions and examples of good practice, we aim to influence decision-makers and contribute to the development of effective systemic solutions for the prevention of workplace violence in healthcare.
These milestone activities reinforce Slovenia’s commitment to the BRAVE-WOW community of practice, paving the way for safer frontline work environments across Europe.