The Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations (MCWO) once more deplores and condemns all acts of violence against women, including domestic violence, such as that seen and reported in the local media which included a link showing a woman being beaten by a man in the Balluta area.
The MCWO requests confirmation that the police are investigating this specific case. We would also like to point out that this is not an isolated incident and that violence such as this occurs regularly, often behind closed doors. Research has shown that one in four women from all overMalta and Gozo have been subject to such horrific abuse and often suffer in silence. Half of these women are currently enduring such violence. As has often been said, no one should have to endure this abuse.
Encouraging indeed was the response of the bloggers particularly the men’s reaction of outright condemnation of such behaviour. Their call to support women in such situations is an unambiguous declaration against such deplorable behaviour and a clear message that being a man has nothing to do with being violent. Such statements can put strong pressure on violent men, shaming them and questioning their self-image as being “the stuff men are made of”. MCWO applauds this response and calls on more men to voice their condemnation and distance themselves from such abusive behaviour.
MCWO encourages women in this situation, and anyone having information about women in such situations, to report to the police, and to seek help from the domestic violence unit of Appoġġ. Help can be accessed directly or through Supportline 179, by dialing 179 that is resourced round the clock.
MCWO augers that the police will take appropriate action and that the perpetrators of this crime, and of all others regarding violence against women, will be dealt with swiftly and effectively.
