Child Protection Policy

VIENNA SHORTS is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all participants, with a particular focus on children and young people. The child protection policy defines clear measures for the prevention of violence, identifies risks within the festival context, and establishes binding guidelines for staff as well as responsibilities in case of incidents.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND EQUALITY
All children and young people are treated equally, regardless of origin, gender, identity, religion, social status, or disability. The framework is based, among others, on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and national legislation, placing the well-being, development, and participation of young people at its core.

NON-VIOLENCE AND RESPECT
VIENNA SHORTS follows a comprehensive understanding of violence: physical, psychological, and sexualized violence, as well as bullying, discrimination, and neglect, are not tolerated. Staff commit to respectful conduct, refrain from any abuse of power, and avoid inappropriate proximity or communication.

RESPECT FOR PERSONAL BOUNDARIES
Protecting personal boundaries is central. One-on-one situations between staff and minors are avoided, and private contact is not permitted. Age checks, content notes, safe spatial design, and clear rules for photography and media use help minimize risks in the festival environment.

RESPONSIBILITY AND CONSEQUENCES
All participants are required to contribute to the protection of children and young people. Suspected cases of violence or misconduct must be reported immediately to the designated child protection officer – those affected will receive immediate support. Violations may result in exclusion from the festival and further legal action.

VIENNA SHORTS understands child protection as an ongoing process: through risk assessments, training, clear complaint mechanisms, and regular evaluation, the festival aims to create the safest and most supportive environment possible for young people.