Paris (AFP)

A "Grenelle of domestic violence" specific to overseas territories, particularly affected by this plague, will take place by 25 November, said Tuesday the Secretary of State for Equality between women and men , Marlene Schiappa, in the National Assembly.

"We will organize a Grenelle of domestic violence specifically on overseas territories by 25 November", with the Minister of Overseas Annick Girardin, said Marlene Schiappa, answering during the government's questions to the MP Modem of Guadeloupe, Justine Benin.

"In some areas, the violence against women has exploded, and I think particularly overseas, such as French Polynesia where rates of spousal violence reach 14% of the population, or at home in Guadeloupe, where figures have jumped 27% last year, "said the MP.

"We are fully aware of the situation, which you have perfectly described, and which was deeply analyzed in an EESC (Economic, Social and Environmental Council) report, about three years ago, notably on the links of economic interdependence. that prevent women from being able to leave home when they live with an abusive partner, "said Marlène Schiappa.

"This Grenelle of marital violence special overseas will complement local contracts against violence that have already been signed, including Reunion and Martinique.We are waiting for the signing in Guadeloupe," she added.

According to a study by the EESC in 2017, violence against women is more prevalent overseas than in France. Thus, while 2.3% of women living in France have been physically attacked by their (former) spouse during the last 12 months, this rate rises to 17% in French Polynesia and 19% in New Caledonia. . Reunion and Martinique, on the other hand, show rates close to those of the metropolis.

Similarly, according to this report, 7% of residents in French Polynesia and 7.2% of New Caledonians have been sexually assaulted by their spouse during the last 12 months, eight times more than in metropolitan France, where rate is 0.8%.

To explain this difference, the report highlights the special role of "insularity and remoteness". On the overseas islands, removal measures are by definition more difficult to enforce, with victims and their perpetrators living in isolation.

© 2019 AFP