Many cases of child abuse go unnoticed as most of the victims fail to report instances of sexual assaults or strange behaviors, largely due to lack of communication between parents and children. Some children have been reported to say there is a social stigma against talking about issues that involve sexual assault. Most of them agree there is a void in the system that makes dealing with the issue difficult or near impossible. This underlines the significance of two fundamental aspects: the stigma barring talking of sexual assaults  in the home and the danger of trusting children with unrelated men.

“The problem lies in our culture; it is taboo to speak about such intricate matters with our parents.”

“Most Saudi and South Asian families face the same dilemma. They we feel that they are segregated from the idea, and the conception of such thoughts in itself is swept under the carpet,” said Maha Abbas, a 21-year-old college student.

Maha Khaled, a 44-year-old mother of four in Dammam, said that most families stressing budget control fail to realize the dangerous consequences of their actions. “One simple move of employing the wrong houseboy can harm your child and may leave a scar that will remain forever.”

Arab News spoke to a few victims who dis not want to disclose their identity. Naila Mujahid (name changed), a 25-year-old artist, recalled an incident with her school driver in Jeddah. “My mom and her friends used this elderly Pakistani driver they deemed to be safe for us, but it was quite the contrary.”

Naila revealed the incident years later when she and her friends were discussing the harrowing experience. The girls identified the driver and spoke about similar assaults they faced, but they were too ashamed to share them with their parents.

Ayesha Radhan (name changed), a 24-year-old teacher, said where her driver would assault her given the opportunity. She said, “He would always make sure to drop off my brother first. I realized that my parents thought it would be safe to send me with my brother, but little did they know that this disgusting man would harass me after dropping him off.”

When asked why she did not report the incident, Ayesha confessed that like many  South Asian families, molestation was considered a taboo, and she would face a backlash. She is saddened and worried as she sees him driving around. “Even though I vowed never to sit in the car with him again, I feel more girls have probably fallen victim to his assaults. I hope someone can help them, just as I wish someone had helped me.”

Khadija Haroon (name changed), a 23-year-old student, said that it was “shameful” to talk about incidents of assault. “The stigma unfortunately has become great that we are willing to be abused and remain silent in fear that the society blames us for what is not our fault or what will bring disgrace to our family name.” She added that most girls under 10 fall prey to these men who exploit the innocence of children and their ignorance.