WILLEMSTAD - The social organization Aliansa is very concerned about an increase in domestic violence now that everyone is forced to stay inside. Jeanne Henriquez of Aliansa states that it is still possible to provide assistance to children and adults (mostly women) who suffer from this.

The organization has made several recommendations to Minister of Social Development, Labor and Welfare Hensley Koeiman and Minister of Justice Quincy Girigorie. For example, a "hotline" can be opened to report cases.

One possibility is also to reopen the two reception centers closed due to corona and to allow victims who, for example, are first tested for the coronavirus. The police can also carry out extra checks in known cases. And the judge can break through a violent situation through rapid justice. The population is called upon to report suspected violence.

According to Henriquez, there is confusion as to whether there are more reports of domestic violence after a WhatsApp message circulated. “Koeiman has stated no, while Girigorie says yes. In any case, we assume that there is an increase, as is the case with corona measures worldwide. By closing the two shelters, you can be sure that there are indeed more distressing situations,” says Henriquez. "We are grateful to the government for the measures that are being taken to nip the coronavirus in the bud, but these represent an increased risk for people in unsafe home situations.”

Aliansa represents 21 organizations that take care of children and families in vulnerable circumstances. Precisely at this time, Aliansa notes that there is no effective system in Curaçao to monitor victims of domestic violence. “More than ever it becomes clear what is also stated in the National Plan, namely that Curaçao needs more shelters, but also, for example, a telephone line to call in an emergency.

Depending on how long the corona measures remain in effect, the situation becomes very dangerous for victims, now that they live under the roof with the aggressor because of the 24/7 shutdown. Because if the freedom of the aggressor is limited, the tension increases and the aggression increases, especially if the aggressor is addicted. The victim is unable to flee and is even more difficult to contact the appropriate relief agencies. The aggressor often prevents telephone use.”

Furthermore, according to Aliansa, an extra vulnerable group will be added, namely, the undocumented aliens, who will certainly not call the police if there is violence.