President Solih: Establishing shelters for domestic abuse victims

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Wednesday announced the government’s plans to establish shelters for victims of domestic abuse.

Making the announcement during Thursday Presidential address at the Parliament’s re-opening session, President Solih said the government has decided to build three rehabilitation shelters for domestic abuse victims, that would provide the necessary help.

The shelters will be built in R.Ungoofaaru, Hulhumale’ and in S.Hithadhoo.

Additionally, the President stated that the government will continue to operationalize the Gender Equality Action Plan, adding that though the Global Gender Gap Index showed that progress has been made in reducing gender imbalances in the health and education sector, there is still a lot of work yet to be done to empower women politically and economically.

“We have to work to provide protection, better services and a familial structure to children under State care. We are currently reviewing and improving the standard practices of State care for children. We need a third eye to anticipate issues and monitor their living spaces.”

“The Government is implementing steps to provide a safe, familial environment for children relocated to the atolls from Villilmalé Children’s Shelter, and Hulhumalé Fiyavathi. We are trying to provide a more homely and safe environment for these children.”

The announcement for domestic abuse victim shelters came a day after an Indian national was arrested for stabbing his wife in their apartment in Male’ City.

A video of the woman being escorted out of the apartment by police show her clothes drenched in blood from the waist down. She is heard sobbing as she is guided down the stairs. 

Information released by police show 23 cases of domestic violence were reported to authorities last January alone.