Stalking in Malta : from perceptions to coping and support

Abstract

Stalking is a serious criminal offence that inflicts lasting psychological and emotional harm on victims. Mitigating and minimising its impact requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including the victim's social network and the victims themselves. This research focuses on stalking in Malta, aiming to comprehensively understand police attitudes, victims' coping strategies, and available support systems through a police survey, victim interviews, and focus groups. The survey results reveal a significant knowledge gap among officers regarding stalking and relevant laws, hindering effective identification and response. As a result, victims often face inadequate support and protection. Eleven victim interviews yield valuable insights into their experiences and coping strategies shaped by Malta's distinctive characteristics. Some coping options, such as relocation, prove unfeasible in the Maltese context due to the economic costs involved and the islands' geographic and social constraints. Moreover, inward coping strategies in Malta are less common, with victims often relying on family and friends for support, emphasising the importance of close social connections in the local culture. While the involvement of family and friends is crucial for providing support, victims often lack validation from professional support services, leading to increased isolation and vulnerability. Additionally, foreign victims face increased vulnerability due to their limited awareness of available services and rights. These findings underscore the need for culturally tailored support mechanisms and improved access to professional assistance for victims in Malta. Focus group discussions stress the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms to address systemic deficiencies in supporting and protecting stalking victims. The discussions, encompassing senior police management, police middle management, and non-police organisations, have revealed underlying issues, including insensitivity, biases, and resource limitations that hinder officers from delivering adequate services. Legal remedies alone are insufficient; educational programs, improved risk assessment models, and enhanced services are essential to meet victims' specific needs. In conclusion, this research study sheds light on the intricate dynamics of stalking in Malta. It emphasises the necessity of a holistic approach to address the challenges victims face, which are further exacerbated by the Islands' restricted and intricate social structures. The findings underscore several crucial areas for improvement: raising awareness, enhancing recruitment standards, addressing gender imbalance within the police force, improving law enforcement training, fostering support networks, and implementing effective policies and interventions. Additionally, adopting a victim-centric approach that considers the risks associated with stalking behaviour is crucial.