Today, Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis held a meeting and teleconference with high-ranking officers, department heads, and domestic violence coordinators to discuss enhanced protocols for addressing domestic violence incidents. ERTNews reports that the meeting concluded with plans to establish shelter facilities for domestic violence victims within each police department. However, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of these measures, given the current lack of specialised training among police staff, as evidenced by ongoing experiences.

For the first time, the Church has pledged to contribute to the effort by offering buildings to shelter victims. Additionally, collaboration with NGOs that provide housing for abused women will continue. This initiative comes in the wake of the tragedy at the Agioi Anargyroi police station, with Mr. Chrysochoidis underscoring the importance of police support for domestic violence victims and urging Immediate Action responders to handle such cases with utmost professionalism.

The minister instructed department commanders to proceed with investigating complaints of domestic violence ex officio, even if the victim does not file a lawsuit, and to ensure the continuation of preliminary investigations. Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of providing support to victims, including facilitating their access to hospital for first aid and forensic examinations.

The Minister of Citizen Protection announced four new measures to enhance the management of domestic violence incidents:

1) Centralised monitoring and supervision of all complaints and incidents by appointing a senior officer as supervisor at the Police Directorate level.

2) A weekly report on complaints and their handling by each Police Division will be submitted to the Hellenic Police Headquarters’ Staff Department for Dealing with Domestic Violence, ensuring oversight and accountability.

3) For every incident reported, the Service Officer will inform both the Commander of the Department and the supervisor of the Police Department to aid in incident management.

4) Every victim will be provided with secure transportation and accommodation in a safe place until the risk to their life is mitigated.

By the end of May, an additional 45 Offices for Dealing with Domestic Violence are expected to be operational across Greece, and the deployment of the Panic Button application will be expanded nationwide. However, these measures are criticised for being more about communication rather than offering substantial solutions.

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