Parliament begins discussion on criminalising virginity testing
Parliament on Tuesday commenced discussions on a bill proposing the criminalisation of virginity testing. The bill, presented by Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg, aims to define virginity testing within Maltese law and impose penalties on those involved.
Buttigieg highlighted that virginity testing is a form of sexual violence against women, as they are the only ones subjected to such examinations. The proposed amendment seeks to impose prison sentences ranging from one to five years for individuals found guilty of aiding, encouraging, advising, or coercing girls or women to undergo virginity testing, regardless of whether consent was given.
The bill argues that virginity testing has no scientific basis or value and is usually conducted under coercive circumstances, often influenced by family pressures. Buttigieg emphasized that such tests cause trauma, humiliation, and physical pain to the victims.
To distinguish between medically necessary gynaecological exams and virginity testing, the bill proposes to consider the purpose behind the examination. Medically necessary exams will not be classified as criminal acts.
Buttigieg condemned the practice of virginity testing, which is prevalent in over 20 countries, particularly in cultures where women are perceived as property. She affirmed that according to the Istanbul Convention, virginity testing is a form of violence against gender and should be prohibited and criminalised.
PN MP Graziella Attard Previ expressed support for the law, viewing virginity testing as an affront to women’s dignity. She stressed the importance of promoting gender equality and improving opportunities for women in society. Attard Previ emphasized that the World Health Organisation and the United Nations have long advocated for the elimination of this practice worldwide.
Attard Previ also called for additional measures to address domestic violence, including the presentation of a bill to define domestic violence in the criminal and civil code. She urged the swift resolution of pending domestic violence cases, the establishment of specialised courts for gender-based violence, and the opening of domestic-violence hubs. Furthermore, Attard Previ highlighted the need to tackle human trafficking, particularly in massage parlours, through enhanced regulation and licensing.
The proposed legislation reflects the government’s commitment to protecting women in Malta, regardless of cultural background or nationality. While no evidence of virginity testing in Malta has been presented, the law aims to anticipate such situations and equip authorities with the necessary tools to respond effectively.
As the discussions continue in Parliament, the proposed criminalisation of virginity testing represents a significant step towards safeguarding women’s rights and ensuring justice for survivors of sexual violence.
