“It is imperative that we, as a society, recognise the signs of such risks and provide adequate support to those who may not fully perceive the danger they are in. It is also imperative for institutions offering support to potential victims to take any form of threat seriously, and it should not be the victim who assesses the risk posed, but the professionals working in the field, who are knowledgable of the fact that victims may not in a position to gauge the level of danger that they are in.”

“Ms. Ghirxi’s tragic death is a stark reminder of the persistent threat that intimate partner violence poses to women. Despite Johnston’s ongoing harassment and the clear danger he represented, this heinous act was not prevented.”

“We must ask ourselves: how can we better protect women like Nicolette from escalating violence? Could more have been done the moment that the victim alerted the authorities that her harasser was on the island? These are legitimate questions that we are now all asking ourselves,” it questioned.

The Malta Women’s Lobby continued by calling for immediate action to ensure that victims of intimate partner violence are given the tools and support they need to understand and assess their risk, suggesting the following: 

–    Enhanced Support Services: Strengthening the resources available to victims, including psychological support, legal aid and emergency housing, to help them recognize the severity of their situation and take necessary steps to protect themselves.

–    Improved Risk Assessment Training: Ensuring that all professionals who interact with victims of intimate partner violence—such as police officers, social workers and healthcare providers—are thoroughly trained in risk assessment and safety planning.

–    Public Awareness Campaigns: Increasing public awareness of the signs of intimate partner violence and the resources available to those in need. It is crucial that friends, family members, and colleagues know how to support someone who may be at risk.

–    Policy Reforms: Urging policymakers to review and strengthen laws related to stalking, harassment, and intimate partner violence, ensuring that they provide adequate protection for victims.

“This latest femicide must serve as a wake-up call.”

“We cannot afford to allow another life to be lost to intimate partner violence. The Malta Women’s Lobby stands in solidarity with all victims of domestic abuse and pledges to continue advocating for their safety and well-being.”

The Malta Women’s Lobby concluded by calling for immediate action to protect victims and prevent further tragedies.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nicolette Ghirxi during this unimaginably difficult time.”

“Let us honour Nicolette’s memory by committing to real, tangible change that will protect the lives of vulnerable women across Malta. We need to unite in one voice in calling for better protection for women and for more awareness to be raised.”

This comes after Malta woke up to the news of yet another femicide, as Nicolette Ghirxi was murdered in her own home by her ex-partner, following multiple harassment reports.

What do you make of this statement?