WUNRN
[07/01/08]
Domestic violence still plagues European societies. In spite of all the
international conferences and declarations, women continue to be battered in
their own homes. It is apparent that it will take a long time before such
ill-treatment is put to an end, but that is why it is even more necessary that
further efforts are made now - by both central and local governments. That
requires something more than mere political lip-service.
During my country visits I often discuss this issue with leading politicians,
most of them men. Some have grasped its importance but others display an
unfortunate complacency. They have argued that “there is no need to discuss this
in our country”. Not only have they been dismissive about the problem as such;
some of them have even volunteered chauvinistic jokes which should belong to
the past.
Domestic violence is a problem in every country. Where there are shelters for
women who must seek refuge, they have proven to be necessary to prevent worse
tragedies. In recent months I have visited such homes in, for instance, Cork
(Ireland), Vlora (Albania) and Graz (Austria) and have been convinced of their
value. Residents, both past and present, have explained that the protection and
care in these homes became a turning point in their lives.
Though such shelters are often run by engaged non-governmental groups, the
authorities have a responsibility to assist and co-operate. Their activities
must also be complemented with other protective and social measures – they
should be seen as an emergency, temporary solution. Of course, they do not
justify that the victim is the one who has to move from the home.
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