The issue of violence against children is a pervasive problem that affects communities worldwide, and Malta is no exception.
In a recent study commissioned by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence, researchers from the University of Malta’s Department of Child and Family Studies found that abusive experiences in childhood are prevalent in Malta, with violence from siblings and peers being the most common form of abuse experienced by children.
The findings of the study were presented at a national conference called ‘Protecting Children from Violence,’ which was attended by the European Commissioner for Equality, Dr. Helena Dalli, as well as several Maltese government officials, including Minister Michael Falzon, Minister Jonathan Attard, Minister Byron Camilleri, and Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg.
Dr. Clarissa Sammut Scerri, the lead researcher on the study, presented the findings, which were based on a quantitative survey of 433 participants aged 18 to 24. The survey included questions about childhood domestic violence, child abuse, neglect, experiences of sibling and peer violence, and experiences of sexual violence. The results showed that violence from siblings and peers was the most prevalent form of abuse, with 75.3% of respondents reporting such experiences. This was followed by bad treatment at 61.4%, and witnessing domestic violence at 52%.
The European Commissioner for Equality, Dr. Helena Dalli, emphasised the need for more knowledge about the impact of domestic violence on children, as well as the importance of prioritizing the interests of children in the fight against domestic violence. Minister Michael Falzon affirmed the government’s commitment to giving more visibility and attention to cases of domestic violence, especially those involving children. He also mentioned the government’s investment in alternative care services to ensure that children exposed to violent environments are brought up in a safe and alternative environment.
Minister Byron Camilleri noted that the study sheds new light on the reality of domestic violence, as it focuses on the impact of violence on children, rather than just on the victim in isolation. He stressed the need for continued efforts to combat domestic violence, including the recent proposed law that would give people in a relationship the right to verify if the other party has been sentenced in connection with a case of domestic violence.
During the conference, Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg highlighted the importance of prevention measures, such as educational campaigns like the ‘Safe Dates’ project, to help young people understand what healthy and non-abusive relationships look like.
The conference was closed by Commissioner for Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence, Ms. Audrey Friggieri, who stressed the importance of local research in developing effective policies on domestic violence that reflect the realities of Maltese society.
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