Concerns Rise as Missing Children Spotlight Honor-Related Violence Education in Västerås

In Västerås, several children at Pettersbergsskolan remain unaccounted for three weeks into the new school year, raising serious concerns over potential honor-related violence (hedersvåld). According to school counselor Nora Mohammad, there has been a troubling lack of communication with the guardians of these missing students. Last year, a similar situation occurred with ten students absent after the summer break, prompting fears of abductions or forced marriages.

Statistics reveal that the risk of missing children often spikes around school holidays, as emphasized by local police and noted in the cases reported by the Swedish Foreign Ministry, which classified 74 family-related coercion incidents last year. This included 22 forced marriages and 18 instances of children being taken abroad for what are termed 'upbringing trips'.

In response to these alarming trends, Pettersbergsskolan has proactively integrated education on honor-related violence and children’s rights into their curriculum for grades four to nine. This initiative aims to empower students and help them understand their rights, fostering better communication with educators about their situations. The school has also appointed a social worker to coordinate with social services, ensuring that at-risk students receive the necessary support.

As of this term, 21 students have been reported missing, a significant improvement from the 56 reported last year, indicating a potential effectiveness of the school's preventive measures and heightened communication with families. Local officials express cautious optimism about these developments, recognizing the need for ongoing efforts to address these critical issues in the community. As the situation evolves, continued attention to the safety and well-being of all students remains paramount.