The Department of Social Policy and Social Work at the University of Malta expressed deep concern at recent public remarks made by retired bishop George Frendo on a live television programme, in which he said that he would encourage victims of abuse to first forgive their abuser before reporting the crime to police authorities.

In a statement, the department referred to Frendo's comments where he encouraged victims of clerical abuse to forgive their perpetrators first before going to the police.

"We understand and acknowledge the potential therapeutic value of forgiveness in the healing journey for survivors of abuse. However, we emphasise that forgiveness is a deeply personal and often painful process that must be engaged with freely and cannot be compelled," the department said.

It said that there can be no meaningful forgiveness without justice, and that must start with listening to survivors, and not burdening them with expectations.

"As a department committed to the core values of social justice, human dignity, and protection of the vulnerable, we categorically reject the idea that forgiveness should precede or be a condition for justice," it said.

The department said that abuse is a profound violation, and the path to healing varies for every survivor.

It said that imposing moral expectations such as forgiveness risks silencing victims and delaying vital interventions.

"Our priority is to support survivors in their journey toward safety, healing, and justice, on their own terms," the department said.

It commended the Safeguarding Commission of the Church in Malta for its tireless work in investigating abuse allegations, supporting victims, and maintaining transparency and accountability, adding that their contribution is essential in rebuilding trust and protecting those most at risk.

On Wednesday evening, Frendo did apologise for "inadvertently" suggesting that victims of clerical abuse should forgive their abusers before filing a police report.

He said that he condemned the clerical abuse of minors "in all its forms," and that forgiveness should not be an alternative to reporting such abuse to the authorities.