A new documentary exploring the impact of disinformation, prejudice, and gender stereotypes has been launched as an educational resource for schools, youth groups, and civil society organizations to promote equality, respect, and violence prevention.

The documentary, titled Inventing the Enemy: Gender, Fear, and Disinformation, was developed by LGBTIQ+ Gozo with support from the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence under the Together We Empower funding scheme. The film sheds light on how fear-based narratives and disinformation exacerbate stigma, discrimination, and social inequality.

Speaking during the screening, Minister for Equality and Civil Rights Rosianne Cutajar stressed that tackling gender-based violence requires addressing its root causes by challenging societal stereotypes and prejudice. She highlighted that prevention must go hand in hand with post-incident response, emphasizing respect, dignity, and equality as essential foundations for a safe society. Minister Cutajar expressed her gratitude to LGBTIQ+ Gozo, the participants who shared their personal stories, and civil society partners working toward violence prevention.

Commissioner for Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence Samantha Pace Gasan emphasised that preventing violence requires continuous effort to challenge harmful narratives. She noted that partnering with civil society organizations allows the Commission to expand its reach across diverse communities.

The documentary project is part of the Together We Empower initiative, which supports civil society projects aimed at raising awareness, educating the public, and preventing gender-based violence.