Many advocates and agencies work hand in hand, trying to eliminate violence against women and children. Despite the fact that this cause is widely recognized around the world, some countries still do not have specific laws against domestic violence. Some of these countries are:
Democratic Republic of the Congo – Sexual violence in the DRC is alarmingly high and common. According to women’s organizations based in DRC, domestic violence is so prevalent that it is already considered normal.
Iran – There is an old Iranian saying that goes “women should sacrifice themselves and tolerate”. That is how many generations of Iranian women lived and dealt with domestic violence due to the lack of laws addressing the issue.
Pakistan – According to some conservative clerics, laws protecting women from abuse are un-Islamic. According to religious groups, this controversial law defending women was just brought forward to accomplish the West’s agenda in destroying Pakistan’s family system.
Yemen – Domestic violence cases in Yemen are not usually reported as it is rare for women to complain against their husbands. This is because of their dependence and low-level of education.
Haiti – Marital rape and domestic violence are not even considered as crimes in Haiti. Like Yemen, Haitian women do not want to press charges or file a complaint. This is why incidents go unreported. Filing a complaint could even jeopardize their safety.
Hungary – One factor contributing to violence is the inequality of men and women in Hungary. Laws are not enforced and domestic violence is not effectively addressed as the Hungarian people generally cannot accept the fact that “women’s rights are human rights”.
Mali – Spousal abuse and other acts of domestic violence against women are common in Mali. However, women are reluctant to press charges against their husbands because they cannot support themselves financially. Even if they do, the police are reluctant in taking actions for domestic violence cases.
Afghanistan – Afghan women are often abused by their husbands and their in-laws. Laws are often ignored, and family customs refrain them from seeking outside help.
Lebanon – A law concerning domestic violence was already passed in 2004. However, it still fell short in some areas and needs further amendments and reinforcement.
Other countries that do not outlaw domestic violence include Egypt, Algeria, Angola, Brunei, Nigeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Despite the challenges of implementing domestic violence laws around the world, however, people are still optimistic in fighting for these laws to be reinforced. Let us just hope and pray that there will be a better future for all women and children suffering from domestic violence across the globe.