Asia: Rampant Domestic Violence Is Linked to Cultural Trends
The underlying factors driving this surge in domestic violence are manifold, rooted in a complex interplay of economic insecurity, social isolation, and cultural norms. With many individuals facing job losses or reduced working hours, financial stressors have intensified, exacerbating tensions within households and fueling arguments over finances.
Domestic Violence Resources Across World Regions
Moreover, the anxiety and stress wrought by the pandemic, coupled with prolonged periods of confinement, have created fertile ground for frustrations to boil over into acts of violence. The inability to escape abusive environments due to lockdown measures has further compounded the vulnerability of survivors, trapping them in cycles of abuse with limited avenues for recourse.
Tragically, women bear the brunt of this crisis in Asia, with a disproportionate number of victims enduring the scourge of domestic violence. In China, 80% of domestic violence victims are women, while in India, the figure rises to a staggering 90%. Cultural attitudes that prioritize male authority and female subordination perpetuate a culture of silence and stigma surrounding domestic violence, rendering women less likely to speak out or seek help.
Domestic Violence Resources
Addressing the root causes of domestic violence in Asia requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses legal reforms, economic empowerment initiatives, and cultural sensitization efforts. Empowering women to assert their rights and challenge gender norms is crucial to shifting entrenched attitudes and fostering a culture of respect and equality within households and communities.
Furthermore, investment in support services, including hotlines, shelters, and counseling programs, is essential to provide survivors with the resources and support they need to break free from the cycle of abuse and rebuild their lives.
As we confront the silent crisis of domestic violence in Asia, let us stand in solidarity with survivors, amplify their voices, and advocate for systemic change. By challenging cultural norms, promoting gender equality, and fostering a culture of empathy and respect, we can create a future where every individual is free from the shackles of violence and oppression.
Afghanistan | Women | |
Armenia | Women | |
Azerbaijan | Children (under 18) | |
Other | phone: 99 412 408 5696 | |
Bahrain | Women & Children (under 18) | |
Bangladesh | Women | |
Abuse Helpline | phone: 966 4699 | |
Bhutan | Women & Children (under 18) | |
Brunei | Women | |
Abuse Helpline | phone: 673 340524 | |
Cambodia | Women | |
China | Children (under 18) | Child Abuse Hotline phone: 12338 |
Women | ||
Men | ||
Older Adults (over 60) | ||
India | Children (under 18) | |
Women | ||
Men | ||
Older Adults (over 60) | ||
Indonesia | Children (under 18) | Indonesian Commission for the Protection of Children phone: 129 |
Women | ||
Men | ||
Older Adults (over 60) | Emergency Line phone: 112 | |
Iran | Everyone | |
Iraq | Women | |
Israel | Women | |
Japan | Women | |
Jordan | Women | |
Kyrgyzstan | Abuse Helpline | phone: 281 455 |
Laos | Domestic Violence Helpline | phone: 1362 |
Lebanon | Women | |
Myanmar | Women | |
Nepal | Women | |
Saudi Arabia | Everyone | MLSD 24-hour domestic violence helpline phone: 1919 |
Singapore | Women | |
South Korea | Women | |
Sri Lanka | Everyone | |
Taiwan | Everyone | 113 Protection Hotline phone: 113 |
Tajikistan | Everyone | |
Thailand | Children (under 18) | phone 1387 |
Everyone | Social Help Centre phone: 1300 | |
phone: 02 276 2950 | ||
Timor-Leste | Abuse Helpline | phone: 390 321 534 |
Turkey | Children (under 18) | Emergency Domestic Violence Hotline phone: +90 212 656 9696 Social Service Counseling Line phone: 183 |
Women | Emergency Domestic Violence Hotline phone: +90 212 656 9696 Social Service Counseling Line phone: 183 | |
Men | Emergency Domestic Violence Hotline phone: +90 212 656 9696 Social Service Counseling Line phone: 183 | |
Older Adults (over 60) | Emergency Domestic Violence Hotline phone: +90 212 656 9696 Social Service Counseling Line phone: 183 | |
Vietnam | Children (under 18) | |
Women | ||
Abuse Helpline | ||
Yemen | Everyone |
How can I tell if someone is being abused?
Recognizing and responding to signs of abuse is crucial in providing support to those who may be in danger. Here’s a summary of the steps you can take to help someone you suspect is being abused:
Be observant: Pay attention to subtle signs such as isolation from friends and family, financial control, and reluctance to discuss their relationship.
Listen without judgment: Offer a supportive ear and avoid pressuring the victim to take action. Understand that leaving an abusive situation can be complex and dangerous.
Make an anonymous report: If you witness or suspect ongoing abuse, don’t hesitate to call the authorities. Your intervention could save a life.
Reach out to support services: Refer the victim to organizations equipped to handle cases of abuse. These services can provide guidance and assistance while respecting confidentiality.
Avoid contact with the abuser: Refrain from confronting the perpetrator directly. Leave intervention to trained professionals to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Maintain confidentiality: Respect the privacy of the victim by keeping any disclosures or reports confidential. Avoid sharing details on social media, as it could compromise the victim’s safety.
By following these steps, you can offer vital support to those experiencing abuse while minimizing risks to yourself and the victim. Remember that your actions can make a difference in helping someone escape a dangerous situation.
Violence Prevention and Self Defense Techniques
The Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense (CVPSD) is a non profit 501(C)(3) with a mission to stop violence by educating at-risk people and empower them with the skills needed to protect themselves by providing online and live training.
Through workshops and seminars we educate participants about violence prevention and guide them on assessing risk factors while establishing boundaries in relationships. Additionally practical self defense classes equip people with hands on skills and effective strategies to prevent and intervene in cases of assault. CVPSD reaches individuals and communities through partnerships with schools and other nonprofits, community groups, as well as classes for the public.