Picture this: a quiet street in Msida, where the only sound breaking the night is the distant hum of a late-night bus. A woman, let’s call her Maria, steps out of her home, clutching a small bag. She’s not going on a late-night shopping spree; she’s leaving her abusive partner. This is a scene that plays out too often in Malta, but it’s one that local NGO Momentum is determined to change.

Malta’s domestic violence scene is complex. According to the National Statistics Office, in 2020, 23% of women and 6% of men experienced some form of intimate partner violence since the age of 15. Maria, like many others, needs support, but the path to safety is fraught with challenges. Momentum, with its 24/7 helpline and safe houses, is at the forefront of this battle.

Momentum’s safe houses are a lifeline for victims like Maria. But with demand outstripping supply, they’re often full. Momentum proposes increasing the number of beds and opening new safe houses. “We need more space to accommodate victims and their children,” says Momentum’s director, Joanna. “We’re looking at properties in different regions to ensure accessibility.”

Access to legal aid can be a barrier for victims. Momentum proposes dedicated legal aid for domestic violence cases, ensuring victims have equal footing in court. “We want to see a legal aid fund specifically for domestic violence cases,” says Joanna. “This would level the playing field and send a strong message that violence won’t be tolerated.”

Momentum believes in prevention as much as intervention. They propose integrating domestic violence education into school curriculums. “We want to teach children about healthy relationships and respect,” says Joanna. “If we can change mindsets early, we can prevent violence before it starts.”

Back to Maria. She’s found a safe house, is getting legal aid, and her children are in a supportive environment. She’s hopeful, but she’s not alone in her struggle. Malta needs to step up its game. Momentum’s proposals are a start, but they need our support. They need our voices, our donations, and our commitment to change.

“We can’t do this alone,” says Joanna. “We need everyone to stand with us, to stand with Maria, and say ‘No more.’ Because Maria deserves a life free from violence, and so does every woman, every man, every child in Malta.”