Speaker Vows Action on Violence Against Women
House of Assembly Speaker Hon George-Massicote pledged to prioritise measures to tackle violence against women after attending the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conference in Bridgetown. Her remarks, delivered during the House sitting on October 30, emphasised collaboration with legislators, community groups and international partners amid Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Hon George-Massicote has affirmed her commitment to addressing violence against women in all its forms, following her participation in the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados. Speaking during the continuation of the Tenth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly on Thursday, October 30, 2025, the Speaker said the conference — held October 5 to 12 — deepened her resolve to work with parliamentarians, community organisations and international partners to strengthen the Virgin Islands’ response to gender-based violence. "I remain committed to working with fellow legislators, community organisations and international partners to develop a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing violence against women in all its forms," Hon George-Massicote told colleagues.
She said the commitment was more than a moral responsibility, describing it as integral to the type of society the Territory aspires to: "One grounded in equality, dignity, justice and respect for all." The CPA brings together some 180 parliaments and legislatures across the Commonwealth to promote democratic governance and human rights.
At this year’s conference, delegates — including Speakers, parliamentarians and experts — examined the growing threat of violence against women, with particular attention on abuse that is facilitated or amplified through technology, social media and institutional inaction. Hon George-Massicote led a seminar on facilitated violence against women that focused on prevention, protection and policy reform.
She said she was encouraged by the insights and expressions of goodwill extended toward the Virgin Islands and that there is both opportunity and obligation to learn from other jurisdictions’ experiences. Her comments come as the Territory observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when local agencies, NGOs and faith groups typically ramp up outreach and support for survivors.
The Speaker’s pledge signals an intent for the House of Assembly to remain engaged with these stakeholders as work continues on improving legislative frameworks, victim support services and awareness initiatives. Officials say potential next steps include strengthening parliamentary oversight of existing policies, exploring legislative reforms to address technology-facilitated abuse, and expanding partnerships with regional and international bodies.
For residents, the Speaker’s statements underline the government’s public commitment to tackling a problem that affects families across the BVI and the wider Commonwealth. The CPA conference and the Speaker’s remarks underscore the growing recognition that protecting women from violence requires coordinated legal, social and technological responses at local and international levels.
Primary source: VINO