Dominican legislator proposes creation of Ministry of Men to address domestic violence

Santo Domingo.- Altagracia de los Santos, a congresswoman from the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) representing Santo Domingo Este, has introduced a bill to establish a Ministry of Men in the Dominican Republic. The proposed ministry would focus on providing psychological support to men as a strategy to prevent domestic violence and reduce femicides.

De los Santos emphasized the need for a dedicated institution staffed by psychiatrists, psychologists, and family therapists to work on prevention and promote healthier family dynamics. She argued that men play a vital role in society and should have equal access to mental health services and institutional support.

The initiative calls for the creation of Ministry of Men offices in every province to ensure widespread access to assistance. The legislator highlighted the existence of ministries dedicated to women and youth but pointed out the lack of a corresponding institution for men, advocating for greater equality and recognition of men’s needs in national policies.