Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity Yuriko Backes presented the project to the parliamentary family committee on Monday, highlighting the centre’s comprehensive approach.
“This will be a place where victims can receive immediate support – psychological care, medical assistance, and social services. The police, prosecutor’s office, doctors, social workers, and nurses will all be available to address their urgent needs,” she explained.
The choice of Val St Croix was strategic, ensuring accessibility by public transport and proximity to hospitals.
The opposition has largely welcomed the initiative, though some MPs have raised concerns about integrating existing expertise. Joëlle Welfring of the Greens stressed the importance of incorporating insights from organisations already working in this field, such as La Voix des Survivantes.
“It wasn’t entirely clear how much existing experience had been considered in the centre’s design. Evaluating and adapting the project based on this input is crucial,” she noted.
Official statistics indicate that over 1,000 people fall victim to domestic violence in Luxembourg each year, though the real figure is likely higher. LSAP’s Claire Delcourt pointed out the challenges in proving cases, particularly those involving sexual violence. “From my own experience in this field, I know how difficult it is to gather sufficient evidence and follow through with legal action,” she said.
Initially launched as a pilot project, the centre aims to offer round-the-clock care by next year. The government has allocated a budget of €1 million for 2024 to support the initiative.
Read more: Raising awareness of domestic violence amongst immigrant women, Domestic violence - Survivor-led association pushes for legal reforms in Luxembourg
