Commemorating International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

As the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, standpoints in favor of intensification of efforts to this effect continue. In this respect, the British Embassy to Lebanon disclosed that on December 1, the Coalition of Women Arab MPs combat violence against women (Lebanon included) will publish the first draft of an Arab Agreement to Fight Violence against Women. It pointed out that the coaltion sends, through the above agreement, a strong political signals on the urgency of adjustment of the Law on the Protection of Women and Girls from Domestic Violence, the punishment of violators and provision of care for the victims. Similarly, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, said that every time “we commemorate this Day we admit the failure of our societies,” pointing out that as decision makers, “we should bear a greater responsibility in protecting women and spreading awareness,” on the issue. On the local official front, Caretaker Minister of Interior, Nuhad Mashnook, reiterated the preparedness of the security forces to respond to any grievance related to violence against women. Mashnook recalled that since the beginning of this year, the General Directorate of the Security Forces has recorded and accordingly handled some 132 domestic violence related complaints. The minister also urged citizens to report similar incidents to GSF competent units by dialing the hot line on 112 for help. MP Elie Kayruz, for his part, appealed to the government to take all necessary procedural measures that lead to a better and more humanitarian implementation of the law on domestic violence. He called for stepping up efforts to develop a law repealing Article 522 of the Penal Code. Prime Minister Designate, Saad Hariri, pressed for a speedy trial and rigorous punishment of the perpetrators. 

(As Safir, An Nahar, Al Mustaqbal, Al Diyar, November 25 and 26, 2016)

 

Previous related news: 

European Commission fed up with gender-based violence in the world!

“Nationality is a Right for Me and My Family” commemorates Independence Day!

Release of Fatmeh H7amzeh victim of confessional laws in Lebanon