Study Draws Insights From Nearly 900 Respondents
A study conducted in Funchal, centered around youth and family has shed light on key social issues faced by young people and families, including domestic violence, discrimination, drug and alcohol consumption, and perceptions of safety. With close to 900 participants, the study reveals contrasting experiences of security and crime within the community. The findings underscore significant challenges despite the overall sense of safety reported by residents.
We have 25% of people who say they have already suffered violence from a partner. It is also noteworthy that women suffer more violence than men and witness it more than men. In the case of young people, although the percentage is lower, we also notice that girls report suffering more violence than boys
Joana Martins, coordinator of the Omar Alternative Women’s Union
Rise in Domestic Violence, Particularly Against Women
Joana Martins, the coordinator of Omar (União de Mulheres Alternativa e Resposta), pointed to a concerning rise in domestic violence. "25% of respondents reported having experienced violence," she stated. The data shows that women are disproportionately affected by domestic violence, both as victims and witnesses, compared to men. Although violence among younger people is less prevalent, girls report higher rates of abuse than boys.
More than 90% of both young people and adults feel safe in the city.
Paradox of Safety: Domestic Crimes Up 10%
Despite over 90% of both young people and adults expressing a sense of security in Funchal, Liliana Rodrigues, president of Omar Nacional, highlighted a "paradox of safety." While the city’s streets feel secure, the home environment poses the highest risk for violent crime. "It is within intimate spaces, such as relationships or households, where people are most vulnerable," Rodrigues noted. Cases of femicide and dating violence emphasize that the perception of home as a safe haven is not always accurate. And domestic violence has increased significantly.
It is a perception that surprises me because, empirically, I did not have this data in mind. In fact, Funchal is a safe city, but, unfortunately, there were three crimes that increased: domestic violence, which rose by 10%; crimes related to drunk driving; and finally, a significant increase in online fraud.
Christina Pedra - Mayor of Funchal
Crime Trends and Community Perception
Mayor Cristina Pedra acknowledged the overall sense of safety in Funchal but expressed surprise at the data. "I would not have empirically guessed these results," she admitted. Nevertheless, she noted increases in three specific crimes: domestic violence, which rose by 10%; crimes related to drunk driving; and a significant rise in online fraud. These findings contrast with the broader perception of Funchal as a safe city.
Budget Allocated to Address Social Challenges
In response to these challenges, Cristina Pedra announced that the 2025 municipal budget will allocate around €8 million for social support programs, with a total of €25 million to be invested over the course of the current term. Additionally, a new plan addressing homelessness in Funchal, aimed at supporting approximately 130 individuals, will soon be open to public discussion. These initiatives aim to alleviate social difficulties and improve community welfare.
Souce: RTP Madeira
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