Effective law implementation key to fight against violence against women
Podgorica, (MINA) – Effective application of the law is key to combating the violence against women, according to the Safe Women’s House (SZK), which also stressed that more severe penalties for abusers would send a clear message that the state protects victims of domestic violence.
The SZK told the MINA News Agency that 13 individuals have stayed in their shelter in mid-May, and that a total of 33 individuals have found refuge there since the beginning of the year.
“Since the beginning of the year, 160 individuals have turned to SZK for help and support, which is at last year’s level”, said this NGO.
They explained that women who survived partner violence most often seek help due to the need for psychological and legal support, as well as accommodation.
They emphasized that some women turn to them for help due to the inadequate institutional response, asking for the support and involvement of the SZK in those cases.
According to them, compared to previous years, a higher number of online and sexual violence reports have been recorded this year.
When asked about necessary improvements that state and competent institutions should implement in order to reduce violence against women and prevent the worst outcomes (femicide), the SZK responded that efficient and effective application of law is the key.
When asked to evaluate the institutional response to violence reports, the SZK answered that in recent years the state has taken significant steps to improve support to women who have experienced violence, concluding that generally the system is more efficient than before.
“However, there are still many shortcomings that make it difficult for women to receive adequate protection”, emphasized the SZK.
The SZK said that women in Montenegro are more willing to report violence today than, for example, ten years ago.
“But, patriarchy is still dominant, and with it control and distribution of power, which as such contributes to violence against women and makes it difficult to fight against”, said the SZK.
