The Link 2024: Connection between violence against animals and human violence

The scientific event "The Link 2024", held on 27th September at the Agostinho da Silva Auditorium, revisited the relationship between animal cruelty and violence between people, with a special focus on domestic violence. The event, organised in a free webinar format by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FMV) at Lusófona University - Lisbon University Centre, included the participation of national and international experts, who discussed the need for more comprehensive public policies for the protection of all victims, whether human or animal. The relevance of adapting shelters to simultaneously accommodate both people and animals in situations of violence or crisis was one of the main topics discussed.

The event programme started with an opening session, followed by a presentation on the concept of "The Link", which highlighted the connection between animal cruelty and cases of domestic violence, child abuse, and elder abuse. The discussion emphasised the importance of "pet-friendly" shelters, which allow victims to bring their animals to safety. Manuel Joaquim Pereira Albano, Vice-President of the Commission for Citizenship and Gender Equality, gave a presentation on the National Network for Domestic Violence Victim Support, addressing the national reality and ongoing measures.

After a brief break, participants resumed with a global perspective on the Urban Resource Institute and its "PALS - People and Animals Living Safely" programme, an innovative co-habitation project that allows survivors of domestic violence to live with their pets in shelters in New York City. The panel continued with an analysis of the programme's growth and impact, highlighting how it has transformed shelters.

The afternoon was dedicated to practical sessions, focusing on adapting shelters to accommodate both people and animals. Experts such as Laurentina Pedroso, Director of the FMV and Animal Ombudsman, and Nathaniel Fields, CEO of the Urban Resource Institute, led discussions and training sessions for staff from the national domestic violence victim support network, guiding them on how to transform spaces and optimise intake processes. The event concluded with a Q&A session, making it clear that there is a need to continue investing in solutions that integrate both animal and human well-being as part of social protection strategies.

The Link 2024 reinforced the importance of more inclusive public policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of all victims of violence, both human and animal, highlighting that this interconnection is essential to breaking cycles of violence and ensuring comprehensive protection.

See the Event Photos on Lusófona University's Facebook

Photography
Rageny Luz

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