Locika is an organisation that works with children traumatised by domestic violence and abuse. It was founded in 2015 by Petra Wünschová and, according to the sources, was the first organisation of its kind in Czechia.[1][2]
Origins and activities
Before founding the centre, Wünschová worked in child therapy and art therapy. From 2001 she focused on children traumatised by domestic abuse, working first for fifteen years in a secret shelter and later also on an outpatient basis.[1][2]
According to the sources, in the ten years of its existence Locika directly helped more than 4,600 children and trained over 6,000 professionals. Wünschová herself lectured at professional conferences and in specialisation training courses for child social protection authorities, the Police of the Czech Republic and judges.[1][2]
Awareness-raising and public activity
According to the sources, the organisation was also active in awareness-raising outside professional circles. Wünschová organised debates, gave interviews and in 2025 co-authored the popular-science book Laskavé rodičovství (Gentle Parenting).[1][2]
Death of the founder
On 29 September 2026 the organisation announced on social media that Petra Wünschová had died at the age of 52.[1][2] In a statement the centre said it would continue the work begun by its founder, "so that every child has the right to a childhood free of violence".[1][2]
The death was commented on the social network X by special educator and former government commissioner for human rights Klára Šimáčková Laurenčíková: "I am so sorry you could not stay with us longer. I thank you with all my heart for everything you did for the safety of children in our country. Peace to your soul."[1][2] Psychiatrist and psychotherapist Tomáš Rektor added: "I do not want to repeat the clichés that the good leave and the bad remain, but if anyone's departure has truly shaken me lately, it is Petra Wünschová's."[1][2]
Chronology
- — Petra Wünschová, founder of the Locika centre for abused children, died aged 52. iDNES.cz Lidovky.cz
Sources
- iDNES.cz — 29 September 2026
- Lidovky.cz — 29 September 2026