Carnaval Associations Implement Measures Against Misconduct
Increasing focus on substance abuse and inappropriate behavior prompts organizations to act proactively during celebrations.
A recent survey conducted by Omroep Brabant, which questioned 93 carnaval associations throughout the province, unveiled significant measures being taken to address alcohol and drug misuse, alongside preventing misconduct during the carnivals. The heightened awareness of such issues stems from increased media scrutiny rather than having specific incidents within these associations.
Interestingly, 41 percent of the surveyed associations reported having implemented measures to prevent misconduct and inappropriate behavior, a stark reflection of the changing attitudes and responsibilities taken on by these organizations. The statistics reveal various strategies being employed, ranging from keeping vigilant watch within communities to appointing trust persons – individuals tasked with handling situations involving misconduct. One association noted, "Echte carnavalsvierders gebruiken geen drugs," meaning "Real carnaval celebrators don't use drugs," emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the integrity of their festivities.
The Pezerikken association, represented by chairman Van de Wouw, also shared insights on their approach. "Als mensen iets vervelends hebben meegemaakt, kunnen ze direct een vertrouwenspersoon benaderen," he confirmed, stating, "If someone has experienced something uncomfortable, they can directly approach a trust person." This indicates their proactive stance, ensuring members feel safe and supported.
Van de Wouw noted, "We are here to create a pleasant environment where people can come and think, yes, this is open and welcoming." He acknowledged the importance of having protocols and trust persons trained to manage uncomfortable situations — sentiments echoed by most associations surveyed.
Some associations have gone as far as to hire security personnel to supervise events, particularly where they noted increased symptoms of substance use, shifting from simply managing alcohol to enforcing zero-tolerance policies on drugs. A quarter of all surveyed organizations admitted to having enacted measures against drug misuse, often instituting total bans. The positive shift includes encouraging partygoers to hydrate with water instead of alcohol and employing wristbands to monitor age restrictions effectively — 37% adhere strictly to the legal drinking age of 18.
Conversely, one significant issue still plaguing many associations is the male-dominated structures within their councils. It was revealed during the survey, 19% of associations do not permit women to join the Council of 11, the esteemed group responsible for organizing carnaval activities. Comments from some members indicated dismissive attitudes toward any need for statistical tracking of female participation, with responses like, "Teveel" (too many) or simply, "Geen idee" (no idea) when asked about female membership figures.
For the Pezerikken association, the past few years have marked significant growth and sensitivity around these issues. Van de Wouw reflected, "Hadden we er toch maar aandacht aan besteed," implying past negligence concerning misconduct, which they now actively work to amend. The movement toward addressing these deep-seated issues not only signifies change within individual associations but also showcases the broader cultural shift during carnaval celebrations.
Ensuring the safety and inclusivity of all participants at carnaval has now become intertwined with the festivities' spirit. The collective responsibility embraced by these organizations marks the dawn of what should be safer carnival experiences, underscoring the necessity for constant vigilance and proactive measures against misconduct. There’s no denying: the challenges of the past are driving the conversations of the present, and carnaval associations are rising to the occasion to forge safe, enjoyable environments for all revelers.