Momentum participates in the national demonstration against patriarchal violence

Momentum joined yesterday’s demonstration in Valletta marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, standing alongside numerous NGOs, activists, families, and community members to reaffirm a collective truth that violence against women is not a series of isolated events, but a pervasive reality woven into everyday life.

The march highlighted how verbal abuse, online hate, sexist remarks, intimidation, and other forms of disrespect form part of the same continuum of patriarchal violence that harms, silences, and endangers women and girls. This behaviour must never be dismissed as trivial.

Momentum joined others in honouring the women whose lives were taken in recent years. Their families and our communities continue to carry deep loss, and delays in justice processes only compound that pain. No sentence can undo the suffering, but timely and effective justice is a necessary foundation for healing and accountability.

Katya Compagno, executive member of Momentum said, “We firmly believe that every part of society has a role to play in ending this crisis. Real change must begin early starting in our schools, where education on respect, empathy, equality, and healthy relationships is essential. We also need to support the presence of positive male role models, showing that masculinity and care, respect, and responsibility are not in conflict, but can and should go hand in hand.”

Natasha Azzopardi added “Only through collective responsibility across families, institutions, educators, communities, and individuals can Malta build a culture where women and girls are truly safe and valued.”

Katya Compagno also highlights the fact why many women in Malta choose not to report violence because the system meant to protect them often placed them in greater danger.Police reports are poorly documented and court proceedings start after months or years often ending with a slap on the wrist or no consequence at all for the abuser. So where is justice when the process itself retraumatises victims or ignores them?

We urgently need stronger laws that no longer let abusers walk away with minimal penalties but ensure true accountability and justice so reporting won’t be seen  as a wasted effort that places victims in even greater danger or ridicules their dignity when at court.

Momentum remains committed to working with organisations, other politicians and communities to help build a safer, more equal Malta for everyone.

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