Violence against women is one of the most prominent challenges threatening the stability and social safety of communities. It extends to include multiple forms of assault, including physical, psychological, sexual, and economic. The World Health Organization indicates that one in three women experiences a form of violence in her lifetime, which results in deep physical and psychological effects and limits her effective participation in social, political, and economic life.
Types of Violence and their Impacts
- Domestic Violence: It leaves long-term effects on women’s physical and mental health, including depression, chronic anxiety, and sleep disorders. It also leads to higher rates of divorce and separation and negatively affects family cohesion.
- Workplace Harassment and Violence: It constitutes a barrier to women’s advancement in professions and leadership positions and leads to a decline in productivity and a feeling of job insecurity.
- Economic Violence: This includes preventing women from accessing or controlling financial resources, which increases their dependence on others and limits their independence.
Legal and Community Protection Methods
Combating violence against women requires a multi-level approach:
- Strict Legislation: Enacting laws that protect women’s rights and punish abusers, while ensuring these laws are effectively implemented.
- Psychological and Legal Support: Establishing specialized centers to provide legal and psychological counseling to affected women and ensuring their access to integrated services.
- Community Awareness: Implementing educational and awareness programs to change preconceived beliefs and ideas that justify violence against women, and to promote a culture of respect and equality.
Combating violence against women is not limited to government agencies alone; it requires the combined efforts of civil society, educational institutions, and families to ensure a safe and stable environment that enables women to exercise their rights and live their lives freely and with dignity. Social security and sustainable development will only be achieved by ensuring the protection of women from all forms of violence.
