One hundred and twenty eight professionals recently completed a specialised training programme on domestic violence and on employment opportunities for victims of domestic violence. The training was organised by the Commission on Domestic Violence, as part of a project entitled "Dignity for Domestic Violence Survivors," which is part-funded through the European Social Fund. A prevalence study, now nearing completion, and a nationwide awareness campaign, also form part of this project.

The Project aims to address the phenomenon of further victimisation suffered by victims of domestic violence, inter alia, through institutional ineffectiveness that may lead to their exclusion from the labour market, thus making them more susceptible to dependency (usually on their aggressor) and in turn exposing them once again to the circle of violence. The Project is being undertaken under Priority Axis III – Promoting an Equal and Inclusive Labour Market.

Domestic Violence affects the self-esteem of individuals, hindering them from entering or progressing within the labour market. Because the vast majority of these victims are women, domestic violence is also a gender issue. As disadvantaged groups, victims of domestic violence require an investment in social infrastructure in order to be effectively integrated and retained within the labour market, and to be ultimately in a position to progress within it and gain financial independence.

Domestic Violence is a criminal act undermining the human right to life and to physical and psychological integrity, not only on those who experience it directly, but also on other family members, including children. The Commission on Domestic Violence has taken up various initiatives to address this phenomenon including emphasising the need for an inter-professional approach focussing on prevention and early detection. A number of domestic violence and shelter workers, education and health care professionals, lawyers and members of the police force, and generic social workers attended the training. During the training, Antoinette Gatt Rutter discussed various issues related to domestic violence, Anna Borg focussed on employment opportunities for domestic violence survivors, and Patrick Psaila facilitated workshops aimed at encouraging professionals and agencies to work more closely together. For more information one may visit www.domesticviolence.gov.mt

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