NCPE Expresses Concern Over Media Platforming Of Convicted Sexual Harasser

The National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding a recent podcast interview ‘during which a person convicted of sexually harassing a minor, who was also his employee, was given space to freely “justify” his actions.’

This was made in reference to a recent interview hosted by Ricky Caruana, who brought on Justin Haber as guest.

The Court of Appeal recently dismissed an appeal by Haber, confirming his conviction and ruling the originalSeptember ruling which handed two year’s imprisonment suspended for 4 years, a €7,000 fine, and a 3 year protection order in favour of the victim and her family.

‘Allowing the perpetrator media space to excuse his actions and vilify the victim is highly reprehensible, as it further increases the perpetrator’s power, places the victim in an even more vulnerable position, and results in her re-victimisation.’

‘Moreover, such actions have a negative social impact, as they discourage other victims from reporting their cases and contribute to the normalisation of abuse. In this case, the fact that the perpetrator has been definitively found guilty by a court renders the situation extremely serious and wholly condemnable.’

‘The NCPE also recalls that the same individual who provided a platform to a convicted sexual abuser has previously engaged in misogynistic behaviour’, the NCPE stated.

‘The NCPE reiterates its call to the relevant authorities to ensure that individuals in public roles uphold standards of correctness and refrain from causing social harm. Individuals who occupy official public positions, particularly within the broadcasting sector, carry an enhanced responsibility due to their influence on public attitudes and perceptions. Where such individuals fail to uphold these standards, they should no longer occupy public roles nor receive public funding.’

#MaltaDaily