NEXEM KARACA

Gaza- Domestic violence against women is increasing in Gaza, Kholoud Sawalmah, the projects officer at Community Media Center, said that this situation affects women both psychologically and physically. Referring to the causes of domestic violence, Kholoud Sawalmah said, “Patriarchal mentality increases domestic violence and all forms of violence against women. Men inflict violence against women and they think they have the right to violate women’s rights. We should look at the culture in which men are grown up with a male-dominated mentality to understand the causes of domestic violence. The men, who grew up with this culture, consider themselves as the leaders of their families and think that they have the right to make decisions.”

“Drugs and alcohol are the major factors”

Emphasizing that there are many causes of domestic violence, Kholoud Sawalmah said, “Poverty is one of the factors that cause a man to use violence against his sister, wife, or daughter at home. Men think women have to tolerate violence against them. Alcohol and other drugs use is major factor behind domestic violence.  This situation increases violence against women. When men don’t find alcohol or drugs, they use more violence against women.”

Effects of violence

Kholoud Sawalmah added that violence against women negatively affects women psychologically and physically. “Physical violence can have negative consequences on women’s bodies. Sometimes, it causes long-term disability. Violence can lead to depression, post-traumatic stress and other anxiety disorders, sleep difficulties, eating disorders, and suicide attempts. Many women and girls try to kill themselves after being subjected to violence.

“Awareness is a must”

Kholoud Sawalmah also drew attention to the education of women about their rights. “Women should be educated about their rights. Awareness is a must. As Community Media Center, we have held workshops and launched campaigns to raise awareness of women about their rights. All NGOs are responsible for holding education programs for women.”