EBÎR MUHEMED

Qamishlo- In North and East Syria, women have held activities and actions to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, annually observed on November 25. NuJINHA spoke to Behiya Murad, member of Mala Jin (Women’s House) in Qamishlo, about the activities and events held in the region to eliminate violence against women.

‘There is an alarming increase’

 Behiya Murad thinks that the global data on violence against women is incorrect and the figure is much higher. “There is a lot of official data on violence against women. Many women experience all forms of violence but remain silent. The increase in violence against women poses a serious risk. Unfortunately, there is an alarming increase in violence against women and femicide not only in Rojava but also all over the world. We make great efforts to eliminate gender-based violence by raising awareness.”

 ‘Women are subjected to online blackmail’

Behiya Murad also commented on online violence against women and girls. “In recent years, more women and girls are subjected to online blackmail. Young women are subjected to online abuse on social media platforms. Men use photos and videos of women to threaten them. Many victims of online violence remain silent in fear. As Mala Jin, we provide legal support to women victims of online violence. There are both benefits and negative effects of the internet. Therefore, we should warn women to be more careful about protecting themselves on the internet. We support women victims of online violence.”

‘Family Law protects women from violence’

The laws of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) protect women from violence, Behiya Murad emphasized. “Since its foundation, the AANES has enacted many laws protecting women from violence. A Family Law covering issues such as marriage, divorce and child custody and bans female genital mutilation, polygamy and child marriage was approved in North and East Syria. This law protects women and girls from violence. It is one of the achievements of women.”

‘Education plays an important role in reducing gender-based violence’

Education plays an important role in reducing gender-based violence in North and East Syria, Behiya Murad said, adding: “We make efforts for women’s rights and freedoms. In North and East Syria, violence against women and girls has decreased compared to previous years. We also hold seminars in schools to raise awareness of children. But polygamy is still a serious problem in society. We carry out activities to end polygamy.”