By ALPHA JALLOH

Introduction

Domestic violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations worldwide, disproportionately affecting women and girls. Despite global awareness and efforts, millions still suffer physical, emotional, and psychological harm behind closed doors. Domestic Violence against women and girls is global human right challenge it affects women and girls throughout the world and crosses cultural and economic boundaries and a burden of numerous sectors of the social system and the affects the development of a nation.

Domestic Violence against women and girls is one of the world’s most pervasive human rights violations, occurring frequently in every part of the world. It has significant short-and long-term physical, economic and psychological consequences on women and girls, restricting their active and equal participation in society.

The vastness of its effects, both in the lives of individuals and families and society as a whole, is immeasurable. Domestic violence is a global issue reaching across national boundaries as well as socio-economic c, cultural, racial and class distinctions. This problem is not only widely dispersed geo‐graphically, but its occurrence is also extensive, making it a typical and accepted behaviour.

Domestic violence is wide spread, deeply fixed and has serious impacts on women’s

health and well-being.

According to World Health Organization 1 in 3 women experience domestic violence globally. Such violence, also known as ‘domestic abuse’ or intimate partner violence, is defined by the United Nations as “a pattern of behaviour in any relationship that is used to gain, or maintain, power and control over an intimate partner. “Domestic violence can take various forms, and most often, it combines several types of violence, creating depression, injuries and illness. Moreover, domestic violence results in broader social and economic costs, including those of services to treat and support abused women and bring perpetrators to justice, aside from lost employment and productivity, undermining women’s capabilities, and even slowing down economic growth.

throughout the world, and crosses cultural and economic boundaries. Also, WHO estimates that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced Domestic Violence

WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence, is any form of behaviour that is used to gain or maintain power and control over over someone It encompasses all physical, sexual, emotional, economic and psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This is one of the most common forms of violence experienced by women and girls around the world Domestic violence can include the following. Economic, physiological, sexual, emotional and physical violence..

Domestic violence is not confined to any particular region or demographic, though women and girls remain the most vulnerable group. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. The impact of domestic violence is profound, affecting victims’ mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Victims often suffer in silence due to fear, stigma, and societal pressure, making it

Beyond the immediate physical harm, domestic violence can result in long-term psychological trauma. Women and girls who endure abuse are at a higher risk for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This cycle of violence often continues for generations, trapping victims in a state of dependency and fear. The root causes of domestic violence are complex, with power imbalances, societal norms, and economic factors all playing significant roles. In many cases, women and girls are subjected to violence because of entrenched gender inequality and patriarchal systems that reinforce male dominance. Economic dependence also plays a critical role in perpetuating domestic violence. Many women who face abuse are financially reliant on their abusers, making it difficult to leave violent relationships. Without access to their own income or financial resources, these women may feel trapped and unable to seek help.

Cultural taboos and stigma further exacerbate the problem. In some societies, discussing domestic violence is discouraged, and victims may be blamed for their own abuse. This culture of silence discourages women from reporting violence and seeking the support they need.

PROTECTION MECHANISMS

Countries around the world have enacted laws to protect women and girls from domestic violence, yet enforcement often falls short. In many places, domestic violence laws exist on paper, but victims struggle to access justice due to poor law enforcement, corruption, or a lack of resources. Furthermore, legal processes can be intimidating for victims, deterring them from seeking help.

Internationally, frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) have pushed for stronger protections for women. However, even with these frameworks, enforcement at the local level remains critical to ensure the safety of women and girls. Addressing the protection of women and girls against domestic violence requires a multi-layered approach that includes legal reforms, societal changes, and enhanced support systems.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Governments must enact and enforce laws that criminalize all forms of domestic violence, providing clear protections for women and girls. This includes restraining orders, mandatory reporting, and effective prosecution of offenders. Legal reforms should also ensure that survivors are not re-victimized in the process of seeking justice.   Education and Awareness: Communities need to be educated on the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of gender equality. Awareness campaigns that challenge toxic masculinity, educate young people about healthy relationships, and inform women of their rights can significantly shift societal attitudes.

Accessible Support Services: Safe houses, hotlines, and counselling services must be readily available and accessible to all women and girls, regardless of their location or financial status. Governments and NGOs should work together to ensure that survivors have the necessary emotional and financial support to rebuild their lives.

Empowering Women Economically: Financial independence is key to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Programs that provide education, job training, and economic opportunities can give women the means to escape abusive situations and support themselves and their children.

Community Involvement: Men and boys must also be part of the solution. Engaging men in conversations about respect, equality, and non-violence can help dismantle the harmful gender stereotypes that fuel domestic violence. Communities as a whole must also be vigilant and report cases of abuse, ensuring that it is seen as a collective issue rather than a private matter.

CONCLUSION

Protecting women and girls from domestic violence requires a collective effort from governments, communities, and individuals. While significant progress has been made in creating legal frameworks and support systems, more work is needed to ensure that these protections reach every victim. Education, economic empowerment, and community involvement are critical to preventing violence, while shelters, hotlines, and legal aid provide essential support for victims.

It is time for society to take a stand against domestic violence, ensuring that every woman and girl lives free from fear. By advocating for stronger protections and raising awareness, we can help build a safer and more equitable world. Together, we can end the cycle of violence and provide hope for a better future.