Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, Dr Helena Dalli, announced that Malta will be the fourth EU country to ratify the Istanbul Convention on violence against women, receiving rounds of applause by those present the minute she made the announcement.

Dr Dalli was addressing the debate held at the EU Council Building which was discussing the results of the Fundamental Human Rights Agency (FRA) survey on violence against women which was launched this morning.

Dr Dalli spoke on the need for a mainstreamed and comprehensive strategy at both the EU and national levels focusing on prevention, education and services.

The Minister praised the effort of the EU's Fundamental Rights Agency on the report on violence against women.  This has been the first of its kind. Dr Dalli said that such a report helps give a clear picture at both EU and member state level on the seriousness of the problem.
Dr Dalli also spoke about the recent initiatives taken by the Maltese Government in this area of policy.

The results of the FRA survey will further help to inform policies in the field of violence against women.