Domestic Abuse Act 2026: Training Initiative Launched to Strengthen Stakeholder Response

A four-day training programme on the Domestic Abuse Act 2026 was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, this morning at the Gold Crest Hotel in Quatre Bornes.

The first session of the training, aiming to strengthen stakeholders' understanding of the provisions of the Domestic Abuse Act 2026, was attended by Police Officers. The training seeks to improve coordination among the various stakeholders involved, and ensure a more effective, coherent, and coordinated response to cases of domestic abuse.

In her address, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie announced the imminent proclamation of the Domestic Violence Act 2026, marking a crucial step in Mauritius’ commitment to combat all forms of domestic violence. The new Act translates Government’s determination to provide comprehensive victim protection, proactive prevention strategies, and a more effective and coordinated response across all institutions, she highlighted.

The DPM pointed out that this new legislation redefines abuse to ensure that every act of abuse receives equal attention, rigor, and protection. She indicated that it introduces an "Exclusion Order," expanding protection to family members rather than limiting it strictly to spouses, noting that this framework places the dignity and safety of victims at the centre of every decision.

Calling for a shift in attitude towards victims, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie underscored the need to discard preconceived notions and underpinned the critical role of police officers who are the frontline responders and those from whom victims seek help first. “Your way of handling the victims and responding is decisive for the course of actions that will follow”, she said.

DPM Navarre-Marie added that the effectiveness of the law depends entirely on them, giving them as first interveners clearer grounds to act, to reinforce or to protect, and provides a legal framework that matches the severity of the situations.

She also underscored the key role of healthcare staff as the first witness to visible and invisible injuries and to detect psychological or economic abuse, documenting them and redirecting victims to relevant services. As for prison officers, she noted that they are engaged in rehabilitating offenders and breaking cycles of violence.

The DPM also commended the roles of Non-Government Organisations in supporting the victims throughout their recovery journey, informing that the new law provides a new mechanism for sharing information between institutions.

In her concluding remarks, the DPM urged for a collective, coordinated, and coherent response to implement the new law, promising protection, justice, and dignity for every family.

24 August 2026

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Topics: Gender