LGBT Forum Progress announced that member of the LGBT community Z.Š. last week was a victim of domestic violence, but that this victim, due to protective measures imposed and for security reasons, "had to leave the common home, while the abuser stayed in the apartment with his family".
They expressed concern about that attack, but also said that, thanks to the quick and efficient reaction of the Police Administration and the Court for Misdemeanors in Podgorica, the perpetrator was immediately brought to justice and that he was given a sentence and a protective measure.
"This verdict represents a good example of the efficiency of the misdemeanor court, which quickly recognized the seriousness of the situation and acted to protect the basic rights of the victim of violence," the announcement states.
Nevertheless, they said that, despite the adequate and quick reaction of the court, they must point to "a serious failure of the state system in providing further measures of protection and support for LGBT people, victims of violence".
"Namely, due to the imposed protective measures and for security reasons, the victim had to leave the shared home, while the abuser stayed in the apartment with his family. This situation led to the victim being left homeless, without the possibility of accommodation or any other institutional support, which literally made her homeless," announced Bojana Jokić, president of the Board of Directors of LGBT Forum Progresa.
He says that this case highlights a serious gap in the protection system for LGBT people who are victims of violence.
"Although the court can adopt protective measures, without a support system and a safe shelter, the victims remain exposed to further difficulties, including homelessness. Unfortunately, from 2021, when the only LGBT shelter in Montenegro was shut down due to the inability to ensure financial sustainability, which led the LGBT Forum Progres until then, this type of support no longer exists. The state failed to develop or maintain a network of shelters and protection for LGBTI people, victims of violence, which left them at the mercy of the most difficult moments," adds Jokić.
He says this case points to the urgent need for the state to develop a sustainable and comprehensive support system for LGBT people, including shelters for victims of violence, to prevent victims from being forced to choose between safety and a roof over their heads.
"It is necessary for the state to take concrete steps to ensure that such situations are not repeated," Jokić points out.
Bonus video:
