Moldova struggles with rising domestic violence
In the first ten months of this year, Moldova witnessed a distressing rise in domestic violence, with 28 fatalities reported.
This represents a significant increase compared to the same period last year, when 19 cases were recorded. Experts are alarmed by this trend and emphasise the urgent need for zero tolerance towards all forms of domestic abuse.
Approximately 5,000 women have experienced domestic violence, but the actual figure is likely higher due to underreporting, driven by fear and a lack of trust in the justice system.
"The abuse began shortly after I gave birth to my daughter. He constantly threatened me, saying he would keep the child if I tried to return to my home country," shared one victim.
To protect her identity, we will refer to her as Irina. She and her partner had moved abroad and enjoyed a seemingly idyllic relationship. However, their lives took a dark turn after the birth of their child.
"Within two weeks of giving birth, his behaviour changed dramatically. Even in the maternity ward, I sensed a shift in his attitude. I was living a nightmare, yearning to escape and disappear. Without any documents, I felt utterly helpless," Irina recounted.
She endured seven months of abuse. Her partner held onto her child's documents, but as soon as she regained possession, she fled to Moldova. Yet, the threats persisted. She sought refuge at a shelter for victims of domestic violence.
"I sought refuge with relatives, but the threats continued. He vowed to find me and take our child. I reported him to the police. If he attempts to approach me, I will immediately call the authorities. But for now, he is out of the country," Irina explained.
Psychologists highlight that many women fail to recognize the severity of the abuse and may forgive their partners, even after physical assaults, if they promise to change. This cycle of violence can be difficult to break.
"Even if they return with a bouquet of flowers, the abuse often resumes. When we discuss the cycle of violence, victims often acknowledge experiencing this pattern repeatedly. There are numerous reasons why they may not leave after the initial assault, as violence escalates gradually. Abusers often isolate their victims socially," stated psychologist Cristina Șobea.
A year ago, Chisinau opened Moldova's first Family Justice Center. This centre has provided assistance to 750 victims of domestic violence, offering a range of services from medical and psychological support to legal aid.
"We provide comprehensive services and multidisciplinary assistance to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, and children who have witnessed such abuse. We assess the risk level of each victim and issue emergency restraining orders valid for 10 days," explained Ivan Crețu, head of the Family Justice Center.
Authorities estimate that at least one in three women in Moldova experiences some form of domestic violence. The Parliament has taken steps to address this issue by introducing the concept of femicide and increasing penalties for abusers. Women facing domestic violence are urged to seek help by calling 112 or the trustline: 0 8008 8008.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
