Speaking during a conference on violence against women organised by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Dr Helena Dalli said that the issue of violence against women was one of the two main areas of equality that will be highlighted during the Maltese EU Presidency in 2017.

Minister Dalli explained how violence against women is, amongst other things, the result of a power imbalance in our societies. Hence, she emphasised the importance for women to gain their economic independence to be able to live a stable life, in equal and fair relationships.

Dr Dalli added that women should be free to work and seek employment free from the burdens of violence in their home, or the risk of harassment at the place of work. It is only then that women gain the right conditions to become fully free to prosper.

Minister Dalli referred to the ratification of the Istanbul Convention by eleven EU countries including Malta and urged the rest to work in that direction.

Dr Dalli referred to a meeting held the previous day with Commissioner Jurova where both sides discussed at length possible EU initiatives tackling violence against women. She also commended the sterling work done by FRA and by EIGE in their joint efforts.

Turning to the recently enacted Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act in Malta, Minister Helena Dalli pointed out that since the female population is not homogeneous, we must address the needs of women in different realities when faced with particular issues.

“These issues too relate to a form of violence against women. It is a form of violence perpetrated by our binary sex culture, where those who do not conform are marginalised, and are likely to become victims of institutionalised violence” stated Dr Dalli. Minister Dalli remarked how there are many other good practices across the EU like this one of Malta, awaiting to be highlighted and shared.