The signing of an agreement between the Gendarmerie and the French-side victims association (see Saturday paper) makes sense. While authorities understandably focus on preventing as well as solving crimes and catching perpetrators, the need to offer those targeted by criminals a bit of guidance should not be overlooked.
Providing the association with an office in the police stations of Marigot and French Quarter facilitates the giving of free advice to those affected as a result of crimes, including domestic abuse. The latter is important, because relational violence is one of the most under-reported offences internationally.
In the same edition there’s a story from Curaçao on a survey stating that 33 per cent of the island’s workforce is sexually harassed at the jobsite on a regular basis, indicating the extent of that problem. By comparison, it’s between eight and 27 per cent for Europe, and 31 per cent for the US. On the other hand, for sister island Aruba the rate is 37 per cent and for Singapore a whopping 54 per cent.
Setting fixed dates for consultations every two weeks could also help lower the emotional “threshold” many may experience out of fear and/or respect for the authorities. Trust and cooperation from the community are essential for effective law enforcement.
Perhaps this is something to be considered for the Dutch side as well. In addition to receiving practical aid such as information on getting medical treatment, legal assistance, etc., just being able to tell one’s story to a willing ear can make a world of difference.
