Safeguarding
Our approach
Reporting an incident
Understanding better the structures at Taizé - General information
Information for youth aged from 15-17 years old
Information for parents with children
More
information
What are we referring to?
Sexual violence can cover a wide range of acts, defined by the law, to which full consent by one of the parties has not been given. Spiritual abuse occurs when the freedom to believe and act independently is denied. A relationship of trust is exploited to satisfy the desires of one of the parties. Emotional abuse is a destructive psychological behavior pattern shown by a person in a position of power, authority or trust. It involves an ongoing attack on a person’s self-esteem, which can take the form of neglect, constant criticism and comparison, as well as deprivation of affection. Abusers do not respect the psychological, emotional, spiritual or physical integrity of others.
Read more!Health matters
Appropriate medical cover and/or insurance. People living within the European Union must bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) (for UK citizens or residents, bring the General Health Insurance Card: see https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/he...). All under 18s must bring written parental agreement and keep this with them at all times. This agreement designates an over 18 as the holder of parental authority. This person should be aware of any existing medical conditions and give legal authorization for medical treatment in case of an emergency.
Read more!Security matters
In Taizé, as part of the security measures taken by the government in France for places of large gatherings, police or military may be present. A Taizé brother regularly liaises with the local authorities on security matters. All luggage should be labelled and never left unattended in public spaces. Participants in the meetings must not bring bags or backpacks into the church. A team of young people at the doors ensure that these instructions are complied with. Participants should not go walking alone on isolated paths outside Taizé.
Read more!Report 2019-2022
In June 2019, Brother Alois, the prior of Taizé, published an open letter entitled “Ascertaining the truth” in which he explained the accusations that had reached the community concerning acts of sexual assault of which three brothers were accused. Among other things, he said: “It is possible that this statement may encourage other possible survivors to make themselves known. We will listen to them and will remain alongside them in the steps that they choose to take. We are convinced that it is only by bringing to light these acts that, with the assistance of persons outside the community, we will help to protect effectively all those who show us their trust by coming to Taizé.”
Read more!