16 Days Of Activism Against Domestic Violence Launched

The national 16 Days of Activism campaign against domestic violence opened yesterday with a renewed focus on children and on the rehabilitation of perpetrators.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg said that more than 500 people completed state therapeutic programmes last year aimed at helping aggressors understand and change their behaviour.

She added that 3,800 individuals made use of government services after suffering domestic violence, with 76 percent of them being women.

Commissioner Samantha Pace Gasan explained that this year’s campaign gives particular attention to children who live in violent households.

She said the symbolic teddy bear used in the campaign will be distributed in schools across Malta and Gozo to encourage conversations about empathy, trauma and safety.

Minister Michael Falzon stressed that domestic violence often becomes intergenerational, noting that children who witness abuse are more likely to experience or repeat it in adulthood.

He said the impact of domestic violence spreads beyond the home and affects the whole of society, which is why both victims and perpetrators must be supported.

Falzon added that every individual deserves a peaceful domestic environment and encouraged victims to find the courage to speak up.

Lydia Abela said she was pleased to see the campaign begin with such energy and collaboration. She noted that domestic violence frequently occurs behind closed doors between people who are meant to care for one another, and that every warning sign should be taken seriously.

Abela said even the smallest intervention can transform the life of a victim and strengthen the wider community.

The Travellers contributed to the launch with their song Sbejħa, which highlights the experience of a child witnessing violence in the home.

#MaltaDaily