Over 4,500 people seek help on domestic violence in 10 years

As many as 4,590 individuals, mostly women, have sought assistance from the Domestic Violence Unit of Agenzija Appogg since it was set up in 1994, and over 500 cases of domestic violence were dealt with in 2004 alone.

These are "substantial" figures, according to Appogg service manager Maryanne Gauci, who added that since its opening in 2000, the Ghabex shelter, which offers emergency accommodation, has provided refuge for 400 women and children.

In Europe, domestic violence is the major cause of death and disability for women aged between 16 and 44, accounting for more deaths and ill health than cancer or traffic accidents, according to the Council of Europe.

International statistics show that nearly half the women who die are killed by their current, or former, husband or boyfriend.

Although most countries have legislation addressing domestic violence, high levels of this form of abuse still persist, showing a clear need for a greater focus on implementation and enforcement of the law, said Amnesty International Malta Group.

Yesterday it launched the global Stop Violence Against Women campaign at a press conference hosted by the National Council for Women, one of the first to give this issue a voice.

Violence against women is the greatest human rights scandal of our times, said Amnesty International Malta Group, adding that at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or abused in her lifetime. Violence against women cuts across boundaries of wealth, race and culture, yet it remains hidden.

The international campaign calls on leaders, organisations and individuals to make human rights a reality for all women. It aims to work towards the eradication of violence against women through abolishing laws that support impunity and those that discriminate; to enact effective laws to protect women from violence in conflict and post-conflict situations; to hold states accountable to their existing obligations under international law; and to secure effective action to stop violence at community level by local governments and civil society.

The purpose of the campaign is not to portray women as victims and stigmatise men as perpetrators, but to condemn the act of violence, said Amnesty International Malta Group coordinator Jean-Pierre Gauci. It is intended as a contribution to the efforts of women's rights movements worldwide, he said.

About 79 countries have no law against domestic violence and 127 have none against sexual harassment.

National Council for Women vice-president Grace Attard highlighted the importance of the long-awaited Domestic Violence Bill, which, she said, is being finalised and brings about several important changes.

Among the innovations under the new bill anyone, and not just the victims, can report a case of violence. Through the new law, proceedings cannot be stopped unless the court decides so, providing stronger security for the victims.

The Amnesty Malta group will be conducting research to see how to implement the global campaign's targets locally.

Among the events being organised is a hand-printing activity at the Sliema, Bugibba and Marsascala promenades on Sunday to raise awareness and show support for victims and their families.

The public is urged to attend and print their hand on the banners to show the world that the Maltese are willing to stand up to violence against women.

Other activities in the pipeline include petitioning events, discussions, peaceful protests, also in the form of street festivals, information stands, an arts exhibition and a film festival.

The campaign seeks to raise awareness and to involve everyone - men and women - in the ongoing struggle to stop violence against women.