TSW Young Women's Edition S3/06 - Young Women and Consent

The shocking statistics are that only 0.5% of rape cases in the EU lead to conviction. And 97% of rapists never see a day behind bars. Even when women speak out, justice is rarely served.

In this powerful episode of The SHE Word’s Young Women’s Edition, host Sasha Vella leads a crucial discussion on consent, a topic that remains misunderstood, ignored, and legally unprotected in Malta.

Consent isn’t just about saying yes or no — it’s about autonomy, boundaries, respect, and education. Yet, despite growing awareness, systemic failures continue to put women at risk.

Joining Sasha at the table are three outstanding guests; Emma Agius, Antonella Bugeja, and Mel McElhatton, who bring both first-hand experience and professional insight to the conversation.

Emma Agius shares her personal experience of being failed by Malta’s legal system as a rape survivor, while Antonella Bugeja and Mel McElhatton examine the psychological effects of consent violations and how young women can be empowered to assert their boundaries in relationships, dating, and daily life. Together, they explore the legal gaps that fail survivors, the lasting impact of sexual violence, and the urgent need for better education and awareness.

As Malta remains one of 15 EU countries that does not define rape based on lack of consent, this episode asks: what needs to change?

This is a conversation that every young woman—and man—needs to hear.

Warning, this show includes open discussion about rape, suicide, and trauma, should you need help, please contact the Richmond Foundation on 1770 or +356 21 224580, or Olli Chat: https://olli.chat/ or Victim Support Malta on +356 2122 8333, info@victimsupport.org.mt

The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the interviewees in this program are solely their own and do not reflect the views, opinions, or positions of the interviewer, the production team, or any affiliated entities.

The interviewer assumes no responsibility or liability for any comments made by the interviewees during the course of the program. Viewers are encouraged to form their own opinions and interpretations based on the information presented.