For the second consecutive year, the International Summer School of the Medical Faculty at the University of Münster, Germany, dedicated a full day to one of the most under-recognised health issues in clinical practice: domestic violence.
On 13 August 2026, 13 medical students from 11 countries including Morocco, Brazil, Armenia, Albania, Kazakhstan, Romania, Germany, Algeria, Czechia, Belgium and Italy, took part in a one-day course on domestic violence. The course was led by Bettina Pfleiderer and Eva Schönefeld, Priv.-Doz. Dr. med., and was embedded in the two-week International Summer School 2026.
From recognising signs to responding appropriately
Drawing on case studies from the European Training Platform on Domestic Violence, international prevalence data and hands-on simulations in ambulatory care, the participants explored key aspects of recognising and responding to domestic violence.
Using materials developed within the EU-funded VIPROM – Victim Protection in Medicine project, the students worked on how to:
- Recognise medical and psychological indicators of domestic violence in gynaecology and obstetrics, surgery and paediatrics.
- Communicate with affected patients in a trauma-sensitive and empathetic manner.
- Document injuries appropriately, considering both medical care and potential legal proceedings.
- Understand reporting obligations, which can differ considerably between healthcare systems and countries.
The combination of theoretical input, practical exercises and case-based learning provided the students with an opportunity to consider how domestic violence can present in different clinical contexts and how healthcare professionals can respond appropriately.
Learning across borders
The international composition of the group added an important dimension to the course. Students from eleven countries brought different perspectives on healthcare systems, legal frameworks and support structures.
The discussions highlighted that approaches to domestic violence vary significantly between countries. At the same time, the role of healthcare professionals remains crucial across settings. For some patients, physicians may be the first and sometimes the only healthcare professionals they encounter who have an opportunity to recognise signs of domestic violence.
Whether in an emergency department, delivery room, paediatric setting or general practice, recognising potential indicators and creating an environment in which patients feel safe to speak can be an important first step towards accessing appropriate support.
Building knowledge for future clinical practice
The course demonstrates the importance of integrating knowledge about domestic violence into medical education. By equipping future physicians with practical knowledge and communication skills, medical training can contribute to strengthening the capacity of healthcare systems to identify and respond to patients affected by domestic violence.
A central message from the course was simple: never assume — always ask. A respectful and sensitive conversation can open the door to recognition, support and further help.
The session was delivered using materials developed through VIPROM – Victim Protection in Medicine, an EU-funded project dedicated to strengthening victim protection in healthcare.