Civil courage when there is a risk of death: Should I intervene if there is a knife?

Andi Geu (49) of Stattviolent.ch, a project of the NCBI (National Coalition Building Institute) association dealing with violence prevention and conflict, says that in general it is questionable whether one should encourage someone to intervene in such a dangerous situation. resolution. The most important rule of conduct for someone drawn into a conflict is not to put himself in danger. “This makes other tips on moral courage difficult to implement.”

Try to talk – it might be too late for that

These tips include staying calm, talking to the attacker, and showing solidarity with the victim, for example by asking them to come to you. This doesn’t mean much if the perpetrator already has a knife out at that moment. Geu says that in such a situation you can only do something that is guaranteed to be right. “Call the police and stay a safe distance.”

He added that if others also observe the incident, you can ask someone else to call 117. Since no one feels truly responsible in a group of mostly passersby, individuals must be addressed directly. In the style: “You’re in the blue sweater, get help.”

“Don’t do that!”

Geu said that in such a situation, he calls out to the perpetrator from a sufficient distance to inform the police and repeatedly says “Enough!” He says he appeals to people with demands such as: or “Stop!”. In civil courage training, it is generally recommended not to use anyone’s name. Also important: look at the person you are addressing with a stern look and do not beg obediently. But don’t make threats either. Geu: “And under no circumstances try to take the knife from that person.”

Helpers who are unexpectedly attacked with a knife may run away if possible or try to defend themselves. But parrying a knife attack is a fine art that some martial artists practice regularly. You may still have a better chance of surviving an attack unscathed if you watch the video below.