Preventing Domestic Violence – the Example of the Amended “Blue Cards” Procedure

Abstract

The objective of the “Blue Cards” procedure is to guarantee the safety of individuals experiencing domestic violence, as well as to ensure effective cooperation among representatives of institutions mandated to respond in cases of such violence. Once disclosed or reported, the occurrence of violence is intended to trigger interdisciplinary assistance. This article examines the methods and measures for countering domestic violence as outlined in the ”Blue Cards” Procedure. The “Blue Cards” procedure has been functioning in Polish law for more than 10 years. In 2023, the Law on Combatting Domestic Violence was amended. The amendments introduced measures aimed at providing immediate assistance to victims of domestic violence and specified the nature of the intervention actions. Thanks to the new regulations, state authorities have been equipped with more tools to protect victims of violence.