Viber bot for domestic abuse prevention launched in Bulgaria

Future Perfect Foundation developed a Viber bot for the prevention of domestic abuse in Bulgaria, named "Silna". It can be found at https://chats.viber.com/silna or by searching for "Silna" in the Viber app for Android, iOS, and desktop computers. Through Viber, the bot is accessible to over 90% of all smartphone users in the country.

"Silna" offers safety tips, quick access to 24-hour phone lines, and contacts of all centers in Bulgaria where people affected by domestic abuse can seek protection.

Through the bot, all Viber users can find out about their rights in case they are victims of abuse, what are the specific steps for filling a request for protection, and where to seek emergency medical assistance on the territory of Sofia Municipality. Educational materials about the cycle of domestic abuse, what forms of violence exist, what the perpetrator is responsible for, and what action the police would take after a report of domestic abuse is made can also be found through "Silna".

The problem of domestic abuse was particularly acute during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports of domestic abuse crimes in Sofia doubled in 2021 compared to 2019, before the pandemic began, according to the Sofia District Prosecutor's Office. According to the same report, in the first half of 2021, five people were effectively convicted of an act of domestic abuse and are already serving their sentences in prison. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, hotlines have also reported a multifold increase in the volume of domestic abuse reports.

Far from all cases of domestic abuse are reported to the law enforcement authorities or it happens only in drastic situations where severe physical trauma and threat to the health and life of the victims.

"Silna" aims to help more people protect themselves from domestic abuse and protect their lives, health, and rights.

The project is funded by the Sofia Municipality's Social Innovation Programme. Future Perfect Foundation was established in 2020 by Milena Edvig and Adrian Georgiev, who have many years of experience in the communications industry.