By Farman Ullah
The International Day of Non-Violence was observed yesterday with a renewed commitment to curb the scourge through awareness.
The purpose of observing this day is to disseminate the message of non-violence through education and public awareness.
It further reaffirmed the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence in the society.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), one of Pakistan’s four provinces, grapples with the pervasive issue of domestic violence. This harmful practice affects children, women, and marginalized communities, perpetuating cycles of violence.
The prevalence of Domestic violence in KP is alarming. According to UNICEF, 85% of children experience physical punishment at home, while Demiurgus reports that 60% of women face intimate partner violence. Human Rights Watch found that 55% of students experience corporal punishment in schools.
Violence takes various forms, including physical beatings, verbal abuse, emotional torture, forced labor, and bonded labor. Cultural norms, lack of education, economic instability, power dynamics, and weak legislation contribute to its persistence.
The consequences of domestic violence are severe: physical harm, psychological trauma, low self-esteem, aggressive behavior, and mental health issues.
Efforts to combat corporal punishment include the KP Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Act (2015), Child Protection and Welfare Act(2010), National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR) initiatives, civil society awareness campaigns, and the Education Department’s teacher training programs.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s efforts to implement anti-violence laws have fallen short, particularly in protecting women and children from domestic violence. The government has failed to ensure widespread awareness and effective implementation.
Key challenges persist, including a lack of awareness among women and children about their rights and protective laws. Inadequate support from law enforcement and judicial institutions hinders the effectiveness of anti-violence laws. Deep-rooted cultural and social norms perpetuate violence against women and children making law implementation difficult.
The consequences of failed implementation are dire: domestic violence against women and children remains prevalent, victims have limited access to justice, and harmful cultural norms persist.
To address these challenges, the KP government must take crucial steps. Increasing awareness about anti-violence laws and women’s rights is vital. Strengthening support systems, including law enforcement and judicial institutions, is also necessary. Education and community engagement can help address cultural and social barriers.