In fact we have virtually beaten the subject to death with writings and condemnations. We called for putting an end to family violence because we are not living in the jungle. We are waiting with hope that laws will be made to punish the abuser and do justice to the victim. However, we will not stop writing about this subject as long as domestic violence continues to exist in our society.

Dr. Majed Al-Issa, deputy chairman of the National Family Protection Program at King Abdul Aziz Medical City, revealed recently that 200 child abuse cases were registered at the Kingdom’s hospitals in the past six months.

He added these cases included physical, psychological and sexual abuse, and also negligence. About 70 percent of these cases have been registered against parents, 20 percent against relatives and 10 percent against unknown abusers.

Makkah province has the majority of these crimes followed by Riyadh province and the Eastern Province.

Awareness campaigns against family violence have been organized by the National Society for Human Rights, which is raising awareness in society through the media. Though the campaign is just at a beginning stage, it will cover all parts of the Kingdom. It calls for codifying new laws to protect family members, especially children and women, against abuse. These laws alone will not be enough if they are not coupled with awareness. People must be convinced about the importance of reporting abuse, whether this is at the family level or at educational and medical institutions. We have to overcome our apathy when it comes to reporting abuse.

This is not an easy issue. It requires the combined efforts of the civic societies, concerned organizations and families, especially women, until laws are made to protect them.

I am surprised. We live in a religious society and our religion is one of tolerance and love, yet domestic violence exists here.