The shortcomings of Maltese law and policy in dealing with parent abuse

Abstract

This paper reviews the effects of the absence of a legislative framework surrounding parent abuse. The principal prospect was to collect ample knowledge and insight in order to expand it into a law proposal. Chapter 1 of the research paper introduces the phenomenon of domestic violence and how it has been in existence for centuries, and then delves into the hidden abyss of the realities concerning parent abuse. Chapter 2 analyses current legislations together with proposed laws which were recently presented in Parliament, with the scope of empowering survivors of domestic violence. In this chapter, the 2014 amendments to the Criminal Code relating to the criminal responsibility of minors are given significant weight as their importance are highlighted throughout the paper. Chapter 3 presents the struggles victims encounter when they come to report domestic abuse and how at times these grounds of underreporting drive them to remain silent. Chapter 4 deals with methodology. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with dedicated professionals whose work involves dealing with instances of domestic abuse. It was affirmed that the incident of parent abuse is unfortunately on the rise. Chapter 5 and 6 transcribe and analyse the information gathered from the aforementioned interviews. Ultimately, it was concluded that parent abuse is catered for in Maltese legislation, and where the system really lacks is in its implementation of the laws and in the creation of its awareness and implications. In conclusion, recommendations for more policies in favour of victims of domestic violence were brought forward.