'Almost satanic' - Pope brands domestic violence against women

Pope Francis described domestic violence by men against their partners as being "almost satanic."

He made the comment, some of the strongest terms he has used to condemn such violence, during a program broadcast on Sunday (December 19) night on Italy's TG5 network in which he spoke with three women and a man, all with difficult backgrounds.

Francis, answering a question by a domestic violence victim named Giovanna, said: "It is almost satanic because it is taking advantage of a person who cannot defend herself, who can only (try to) block the blows," he said.

"It is humiliating. Very humiliating."

Giovanna said that she had four children to care for after they escaped from a violent home.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began nearly two years ago, Francis has several times spoken out against domestic violence, which has increased in many countries since lockdowns left many women trapped with their abusers.

Police figures released last month showed that there are about 90 episodes of violence against women in Italy every day and that 62% were cases of domestic violence.

Turning to other examples of human misery, he listened to a homeless woman speak of life on the street and a man trying to get back on his feet after 25 years in jail.

"Any conviction for a crime committed must have a hope, a window", Francis said talking about prison as a system of redemption. "People must be given hope that one day they will be able to get out."