Minister of Health, Family and Welfare Geela Ali has announced plans to develop three centres to provide support for victims of domestic violence.
The centres will provide victims with a safe environment and all the assistance they need to return to normal life through a comprehensive support system. Speaking on Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu's Ahaashey Bunaanan programme, Minister Geela said the centres will be established in three regions of the Maldives.
An announcement has been issued this year seeking a party to undertake work on the centre planned for Addu City. The work forms part of the Strengthening Gender Inclusive Initiatives Project, carried out with assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The other two support centres are being developed in Hulhumalé and Raa Ungoofaaru in the north.
Detailing the assistance available at the centres, Minister Geela said victims will receive the support, protection and financial assistance they need. Where victims have children, the centres will also make arrangements for their schooling and facilitate all other aspects of their daily lives.
The centres will also provide rehabilitation programmes and other necessary support to help victims recover from the psychological effects of domestic violence.
A total of 1,193 domestic violence cases were submitted last year, while 236 cases were reported in the second quarter of this year. Malé area recorded the highest number of submitted cases.
Victims of domestic violence can suffer profound physical and psychological effects. The Government has a responsibility to ensure they remain in a safe environment while their cases are considered and resolved, as well as afterwards.
It is also important to provide victims with the legal advice and assistance they are entitled to receive, enabling them to obtain justice without undue delay.