In fact, we have virtually killed this subject by writing extensively on it and issuing condemnations. We call for an end to family violence because we do not live in a jungle. We wait hoping for laws to punish those responsible and grant justice to victims. 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 Abdulaziz Medical City, revealed recently that 200 child abuse cases were registered at the Kingdom's hospitals in the past six months.

He added that these cases included physical, psychological and sexual abuse, and also negligence. About 70 percent of the cases were registered against the children’s parents, 20 percent against relatives and 10 percent against unknown abusers.

The majority of these crimes occurred in Makkah province followed by Riyadh and the Eastern Province.

Awareness campaigns against domestic violence have been organized by the National Society for Human Rights, which is utilizing the media. Though the campaign is just at a beginning stage, it will cover all regions of the Kingdom. It calls for codifying new laws to protect family members, especially women and children, 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 matter. 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.