Domestic violence was intrinsically unacceptable and could never be justified, the Gender Issues Committee at the University of Malta said.

“Everyone has the right to live without fear of violence or abuse,” said a GIC spokesman.

The committee stressed that domestic violence, whether psychological or physical, was not merely a family concern but even harmed society.

It also expressed concern at comments made by Saint James Hospital chairman and former MP Josie Muscat, who, earlier this week, argued men were often provoked into resorting to domestic violence.