By Zoila Palma: Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton calls for “Real solutions” to gender based violence.
“The amendments to the Domestic Violence Act and the Justice of the Peace Act, as a step in the right direction, have the full support of the United Democratic Party. Any measure that expands access to protection orders is welcomed especially by those most vulnerable and at risk. Our statistics show that over 1,200 cases of gender-based violence were reported this year alone. Gender-based violence disproportionately affects women, and women need more than symbolic gestures,” Panton said.
Panton says that women and children need to be safe.
“For protection to be meaningful, it must be accessible, private, practical, and free of barriers. We contend that a 72-hour limit is not enough. Fees should never stand between a woman and her safety. Belize has committed under CEDAW and the Convention of Belém do Pará to a zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence. That commitment requires us to strengthen protections, not stop halfway. While we support these amendments as a temporary fix, we are calling for more, much more. Gender-based violence has claimed five lives in just 18 days,” Panton added.
Panton says that the Ministry responsible for Women’s Affairs has indicated that comprehensive legislation will be brought in the upcoming parliamentary session.
“That legislation must deliver: Access to safe houses; Speedy and survivor-centered court procedures; Meaningful legal reform; Proper training for police officers /case workers; Modern, data-driven systems; And, most critically, confidentiality when women finally find the courage to seek help Too many women continue to suffer in silence,” Panton expressed.
Panton and the UDP calls for “the establishment of a bi-partisan group of local and technical experts, individuals who understand the unique realities and nuances of gender-based violence in Belize, to help design the durable, effective solutions our country urgently needs.”
