‘Flimkien Nieqfu. Flimkien Infiqu.’: 16 Days Of Activism Against Domestic Violence
The Maltese government has launched a national campaign titled ‘Flimkien Nieqfu. Flimkien Infiqu.’ which translates to ‘Together We Stop. Together We Heal.’ to mark 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence.
This initiative, led by Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg, Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon, and Lydia Abela, aims to raise awareness and combat this critical issue.
View this post on Instagram
Spanning from 25th November—International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—to 10th December—Human Rights Day—the campaign includes a range of activities and initiatives designed to shed light on the complexities of domestic and gender-based violence.
It also highlights the importance of consent and provides information about the professional services available to victims.
Rebecca Buttigieg emphasised that this year’s campaign includes dramatic performances across various localities to convey its key message. “Each one of us must contribute to addressing this social plague,” she said. “We cannot remain indifferent to the physical and emotional suffering of victims of domestic violence—whether women, men, children, or the elderly.”
Minister Michael Falzon shared alarming statistics, revealing that since January, MARAM (the domestic violence support unit) has handled over 530 cases.
Of these, 15 were so severe they required immediate police action. “The majority of these cases stemmed from intimate partner violence,” he added.
Lydia Abela underscored the importance of continuing this dialogue beyond the 16 days of activism. “Education is key to fostering a shift in mentality,” she said.
“While many changes have been implemented, the most profound transformation must occur in how we think about and address domestic violence. Together, united, we can stop this reality and heal as one.”
Commissioner Samantha Pace Gasan explained that this campaign is inspired by the third National Strategy on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence, launched last year. She noted that 60% of the measures outlined in the strategy are already being implemented.
These free events will take place in the following localities at 7pm:
- Rabat: 27th November at Palazzo Xara, Band Club L’Isle Adam
- St. Paul’s Bay: 29th November at the Primary School of St. Paul’s Bay
- Gżira: 4th December at the Parish Hall
- Fgura: 7th December at the Local Council Hall
- Victoria, Gozo: 10th December at Hall No. 2 at Ċittadella.
The public is encouraged to participate in these events, uniting to support victims and advocate for respect and love in every individual’s life.
Will you be attending any of these events?