Andorra Deploys Safety Buttons for 28 High-Risk GBV Victims

Twenty-eight women under the supervision of Andorra's Service for Attention to Victims of Gender-Based Violence (Savvg) are now using safety buttons to bolster their protection against gender-based violence.

The portable devices, introduced late last year, link directly to police through a companion mobile app. A single press sends an instant alert with the user's precise location, prompting dispatch of the closest patrol. The app simultaneously captures and streams live audio to the police coordination centre, allowing the woman to share details about her position and circumstances without touching her phone.

Once officers resolve the incident, it is recorded in the system. Police and Savvg then monitor any follow-up, involving other parties if required. Each device uses a unique code to protect user anonymity.

To qualify, women must be in active Savvg follow-up with a medium or high risk rating, agree to the service rules, and—for certain cases—reside in a Savvg shelter. Co-habiting with the aggressor does not bar access.

The initiative aims to shorten police response times for those facing heightened threats.

From January to May this year, Savvg managed 229 cases, up marginally from 215 in the same period of 2023, when the annual total hit 359. This included 113 carried over from previous years, 64 new instances, and 52 returns from women who had earlier left the service.

Support is available 24/7 through the 181 hotline, WhatsApp at 606181, email at igualtat@govern.ad, or the office line 825 252.