On October 1st 2025, Hope for the Future once again hosted a film evening, screening the documentary Buying Her for the second time since its premiere in the spring. Why this film in particular? Because it does something different: it does not resort to sensationalist drama that shows victims in the glaring spotlight. Instead, it forces us to take a closer look – at the other side. At men who were exposed to pornography far too early, became addicted and thus became accomplices in a system of violence and exploitation. The women they sought out were not only prostitutes, but in many cases also victims of human trafficking. And the bitter truth is that the men knew it!
Buying Her relentlessly exposes how closely violence, abuse and prostitution are intertwined – a system that is still far too often concealed or glossed over. With this film, we wanted not only to move people, but to shake them up. The goal behind it: to break the silence and finally bring what is so often suppressed to the forefront of social debate. The film was not meant to be merely consumed – it was meant to inspire reflection, questions, discussion and, above all, action.
Concern in the auditorium, clarity on the podium
The evening began with a meal together at the Meierei in Vienna, which created an open and welcoming atmosphere. Even during this informal phase, initial discussions took place, revealing how present, yet at the same time how elusive, the issues of violence and abuse are for many people. The film Buying Her followed on from this and, with its intensity, had an effect that visibly moved the audience. The silence in the room during the screening spoke for itself: the viewers were deeply touched by the stories, which reflected the reality of many affected people with oppressive clarity.
Following the film screening, Andrea Staudenherz, chairwoman of Hope for the Future, opened a discussion panel accompanied by experts from various fields: a divorce lawyer, a representative of the state education system, a representative of an organisation for school education work and a sex therapist took part in the panel. They contributed not only their in-depth expertise, but also vivid examples from their professional practice. It became clear how closely the issues of violence and abuse are intertwined with prostitution. It was evident that prostitution is rarely based on a free choice. Rather, poverty, addiction, trauma, unequal power relations and social structures are decisive factors.
The experts’ point that our society still needs to comprehensively destigmatise these issues was particularly striking. Much is suppressed or trivialised, often forcing those affected into silence once again. The panellists emphasised that it is urgently necessary to view prostitution not in isolation, but in the context of structural violence and patriarchal power relations.
Concern alone is not enough – commitment is needed
In the ensuing open discussion, numerous guests spoke up. Different perspectives collided: some reported on their own experiences in their social environment, while others asked critical questions about political and legal frameworks. It became clear time and again how great the need is to learn more about the background, causes and social dynamics. At the same time, it became clear how difficult it is for many to talk openly about abuse, dependency and exploitation.
Despite the seriousness of the topic, the discussion was very lively. It was noticeable that the participants were not only intellectually but also emotionally deeply involved. A common conclusion emerged: the fight against violence, abuse and exploitation must not be left to individual organisations, but is a task for society as a whole. Everyone is called upon to raise awareness of the issues, support those affected and demand political change.
On site, guests also had the opportunity to delve even deeper into the work of Hope for the Future. The opportunity to purchase products made by the clients was particularly well received.
The backpacks and bags are not only beautiful examples of craftsmanship, but also reflect the commitment, creativity and joy of the clients in their shared sewing activity. Each bag tells a story of learning processes, of the courage to try new things, and of strengthening one’s own work structure. The fact that 100% of the proceeds go back into supporting other people made it clear to the participants how directly their commitment can have an impact. This made the clients’ work tangible and allowed the guests to become part of this solidarity initiative in an impressive way.
As the evening drew to a close, the mood was both thoughtful and determined. Many participants expressed gratitude for the space that HFTF had created – a space where difficult questions could be asked and repressed realities could be brought to light. The central feeling that remained in the room was clear: we must all fight every day to break the silence and bring the discussion into the public arena.
Translated by Anna Smith
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