The new strategy that was launched last week against domestic violence and gender-based violence for the first time envisages measures aimed at reaching different communities in Malta that are experiencing domestic violence. The measures of the strategy were explained to the Ambassadors and Diplomats in Malta in a conference organized by the Commission for Domestic Violence and Gender-Based Violence.
The Commissioner for Domestic Violence and Gender Based Violence Samantha Pace Gasan explained the measures and the proposals of the strategy to be able to provide services to foreign persons who are going through episodes of domestic violence.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg encouraged the Ambassadors and the representatives of the foreign communities to continue with this dialogue with the Maltese authorities. The Parliamentary Secretary explained that the social scourge of domestic violence is a phenomenon that affects every society. She added that it is important that services can be reached by all communities.
She emphasized the need to increase awareness even among foreign citizens about the various help services for victims of domestic violence here in Malta. Rebecca Buttigieg said that this is part of the ‘Beat the Silence’ message, of the 16-day campaign of activism that is currently taking place against domestic violence and gender-based violence.
Dr. Lydia Abela argued on the importance of education and awareness campaigns such as the 16 days of activism to continue raising awareness about domestic and gender-based violence. “It is crucial that our communities are aware and responsible of people like them in society so that when help is needed, it is given in time,” pointed out the Prime Minister’s wife and she addresses the Ambassadors and Consuls .
Dr. Abela noted the steps in the right direction that Malta is making to be a model country that applies the Istanbul Convention and said that the different countries can have an exchange of information so that we can continue to welcome domestic violence, an ugly reality all over the world. She claimed that with the work done and now the implementation of the third national strategy for violence based on gender and domestic violence, our country must continue to deliver a message that in society there is no place for hatred and violence but only love and respect should reign in it.
Meanwhile, present at this conference was also the European Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli where she insisted on the strong commitment even at European level to address violence based on gender and domestic violence.
“Our work, from the launch of a European Union network for prevention to the strengthening of legal protections and the financing of essential projects, are concrete steps towards a safer and more equal society”, said the Commissioner. Dalli. She added, “We are not only responding to violence, but we are also attacking its roots, challenging gender stereotypes and especially among young people. In Malta and in the rest of Europe, our collective efforts are crucial to ensure that every woman, particularly the most vulnerable such as migrant women or women with disabilities, is protected and given the power to speak”.
Representatives of various entities and agencies that in one way or another provide services to victims in this field also took part in the conference.
Photos: MHSR_PS
