To mark 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, Fondazzjoni Sebħ participated in various forums to raise awareness on domestic violence and gender based violence.

This participation was held with various professionals and in collaboration with different entities including the Commission on Gender Based Violence and Domestic Violence.

This year, we wanted to highlight the Istanbul pillar of prevention, which says that countries must take concrete steps to prevent domestic and gender based violence. Teaching children about relationships is key to preventing further violence and abuse. For this reason, this year, we asked children who use Fondazzjoni Sebħ services to send us their messages on creating and maintaining healthy relationships.

Some sent images of a football field or of a mobile phone. But one picture stood out. Clutched in his small hands, a boy held up a sign that read: “It is better to use hands for cuddling than for hitting.”

Fondazzjoni Sebħ cares for around 40 children in residential care. It also runs a second-stage shelter for domestic violence survivors and their children and a community prevention team, which works with individuals and families in Ħamrun and Marsa.

The pandemic has forced us to re-think the ways in which we help our clients. Social distancing measures meant we needed to provide ways for families to connect, despite the Covid-19 restrictions.

As we adapted to the new normal, another pandemic became more powerful than ever. Emerging global data suggests violence against women and girls, particularly domestic violence, intensified. Social distancing and the looming fear of a lockdown led to a rise in domestic abuse, according to data. Individuals experiencing violence felt more isolated than ever, with limited access to family and friends.

More needs to be done to prioritize addressing violence against women. A global pandemic needs global solutions. Just like the struggle against Covid-19, ending domestic violence requires effort from the entire community. We are suggesting 5 tangible ways of helping fight this potent pandemic:

1.      Believe the victims

Breaking the cycle of abuse starts by speaking out, but society needs to provide safe spaces where women are heard and believed. Comments asking about the victim’s clothes, sobriety, sexuality and age are irrelevant.  Comments asking “why did she stay?” are irrelevant. Responsibility lies only with the perpetrator. Seek out ways to show we hear and stand with victims instead.

2.      Teach our young children

Gender roles are not set in stone. Pointing out stereotypes helps to foster a culture of acceptance.

When you talk about consent, bodily autonomy and accountability to children, you empower them with the information to confront sexist stereotypes.

3.      Hold each other accountable

Take an active role in calling out inappropriate comments or sexist jokes. This will help create a safe environment for everyone. It will also allow people to reflect on their own behaviour and biases.

4.      Learn the signs of abuse

Many people miss the initial signs of abuse. This can appear in the early stages of a relationship or it can take months or years to appear. However, there are some initial red flags that a person can spot.

Be wary of partners who get jealous easily and insist on controlling financial decisions. Embarrassing or shaming you could also be an initial sign of abuse.

5.      Know the resources available

Know the resources to help you or any victims. The police recently launched a specialised gender based violence and domestic violence unit. The support line 179 and the online service Violet are also available to provide support in situations of domestic violence.

Someone experiencing violence may not be able to research shelters, escape plans or safety plans given the presence of their abusers. Offer support, keep things confidential and report to the relevant authorities whenever the need arises.

The biggest resources we can offer is a non-judgmental and an empowering attitude.

More than 37 women have been murdered since 2000 and the vast majority of these women were killed by their partner or close family member.

Saving lives is everybody's responsibility. Act now before it is too late.