react to domestic violence

Building a Support System for Victims of Domestic Violence
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Timetables, deadlines, and specific budgets for the implementation of the National Action Plan on
the Prevention and Combating of Domestic Violence must be set.
••
Thoroughly monitor and evaluate the measures and strategies of the National Action Plan for the
Prevention and Combating of Domestic Violence, and ensure that such monitoring is undertaken by
an independent organisation that is not a party to the NAP.
••
A systematic plan of action for the prevention of violence against women is needed, that will include
awareness campaigns through the media and other sources, which will be monitored as to its implementation,
regularity, target group and evaluation.
••
Cooperation among governmental departments as well as cooperation between governmental
departments and NGOs must be clearly re-examined and a new revised Manual of Interdepartmental
Procedures drafted and adopted.
••
NGOs and women’s organisations must be systematically consulted in the formulation and implementation
of policies and measures to combat domestic violence.
••
The establishment of a domestic violence crisis centre that will provide a range of high quality, comprehensive
and coordinated specialized services for women including legal assistance, counselling
services, psychosocial support, health services, among others.
••
The state must meet its obligation to provide safe shelter to women victims of violence and their children
according to recommendations by the Council of Europe and the European Parliament.
••
A 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic violence must become operational without delay with specialised
staff for immediate urgent intervention.
••
Organise systematic and specialised training using a gender-sensitive approach for all actors involved
in domestic violence, including the police, the health services, the social welfare services, the judiciary
and legal professionals.
••
Women who are victims of domestic violence must be able to receive autonomous and independent
residence status regardless of migration status.
••
Accessible and free legal assistance should be provided to all women victims of domestic violence
prior and during the legal proceedings.
••
Greater support from the state to NGOs that provide services to victims of violence. The funding and
NGO participation in policy and services must be transparent and be regulated by law.
••
Women victims of domestic violence must be recognized as a group particularly vulnerable to poverty
and social exclusion. They should have access to a tailored package of services that will promote
access to quality housing, income support, education and vocational training, child care services,
among others.
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