Background and Problem Statement

Combating domestic violence is a critical challenge in Bangladesh, which is deeply entrenched in patriarchal social structures that disproportionately disadvantage women. Despite constitutional guarantees of equal rights, systemic discrimination and violence persist within family settings. Research indicates that over 40% of women in Bangladesh experience domestic violence, with 19% subjected to life-threatening physical abuse. Cultural norms, societal pressures, and ineffective implementation of existing legal provisions often prevent women from seeking legal redress.

While Bangladesh has several legal frameworks to protect women, the lack of gender-sensitive enforcement and societal acceptance of violence against women remain significant barriers. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach to challenge cultural norms, raise awareness, and strengthen institutional support.

To combat these challenges, FAIR initiated the “Combating Domestic Violence Project.” The project’s first phase (2004-2006) was implemented in collaboration with the Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA) and supported by the Manusher Jonno Foundation. This phase focused on grassroots awareness and prevention efforts in two unions of Kushtia Sadar. Due to its success, the project was expanded in Phase II (2006 onwards) to cover four unions, aiming to establish long-term solutions and promote gender equality.

Rationale Statement

The project’s rationale lies in addressing critical gaps in Bangladesh’s legal, social, and cultural frameworks that hinder women from accessing justice and protection. Building on the successes of Phase I, Phase II was designed to extend the project’s reach, focusing on creating a safer environment for women through legal awareness, community mobilization, and proactive interventions. By fostering grassroots participation and strengthening legal frameworks, the project seeks to ensure sustained progress in combating domestic violence.

Objectives of the Project

1. Improve Access to Information: Educate women, children, and communities about their rights and available services for combating domestic violence.
2. Strengthen Local Organizations: Mobilize and empower local organizations to address the needs of domestic violence survivors effectively.
3. Sensitize Communities: Engage communities to take an active role in addressing domestic violence and supporting survivors.
4. Provide Legal Support: Ensure survivors of domestic violence receive timely legal assistance and access to justice.

Key Activities and Implementation Strategies

1. Community-Based Interventions

• Formation of Vigilance Teams (VT): Local volunteers, including both men and women, were carefully selected and trained to identify signs of domestic violence, provide immediate support, and mediate disputes. These teams served as a frontline response to domestic violence cases in their communities.
  • Quarterly Training Sessions and Meetings: Regular training programs and review meetings were organized to ensure that VT members were equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle cases effectively. These sessions included topics such as understanding the legal rights of women, recognizing the signs of abuse, and managing sensitive situations.
  • Participation in Fact-Finding Missions and Mediation: VT members actively participated in collecting evidence and conducting investigations into domestic violence cases. They also mediated disputes, particularly in cases where victims sought non-legal resolutions. This grassroots approach enabled early intervention and resolution of conflicts.

·    Community Counseling Centers (CCC): Safe spaces were established in Mojampur, Hatosh Horipur, Ailchara, and Uzangram to provide victims of domestic violence with confidential and supportive environments. These centers also delivered doorstep legal services, ensuring victims received essential legal support directly within their communities. By minimizing barriers to justice, CCCs made legal assistance more accessible and effective.

• Complaint Filing, Legal Assistance, and Counseling Services: Victims could file complaints at CCCs, where trained counselors and legal professionals provided emotional and legal support.
• Fact-Finding and Mediation: CCC staff conducted detailed investigations into reported cases to collect evidence and offer mediation services aimed at conflict resolution. If mediation failed, the cases were referred for legal action.

2. Awareness Campaigns

• Street Theatre and Drama: Local theater groups were engaged to perform plays and skits in public spaces. These performances depicted real-life scenarios of domestic violence, educating audiences about its harmful effects and the importance of gender equality.
• Educational Debates: Debates and discussions were organized in schools and community centers to encourage young people to think critically about domestic violence and advocate for women’s rights. These events aimed to empower the next generation to challenge harmful norms and behaviors.
• Media Campaigns: The project utilized local media and community announcements to spread messages about domestic violence prevention and available support systems. This approach helped to reach a larger audience, including those who might not participate in formal programs.

3. Observance of Special Days

• World Human Rights Day: Rallies, open discussions, and theater performances were held to highlight the importance of human rights, particularly women’s rights, in combating domestic violence.
• International Women’s Day: Activities included campaigns, performances, and discussions focused on promoting gender equality and raising awareness about domestic violence.
• Other Special Days: Observances such as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women provided additional opportunities to engage the community and strengthen collective action against domestic violence.

4. Training Programs

• Legal Rights and Domestic Violence Laws: Training sessions educated teachers, local leaders, and VT members about the rights of women and the legal frameworks designed to protect them.
• Effective Mediation and Counseling Techniques: Participants were trained in practical skills for mediating disputes and providing emotional support to victims, ensuring peaceful and respectful resolutions.

5. Coordination and Collaboration

• Partnerships with Local Authorities: The project collaborated with Union Parishads, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to ensure a united effort in addressing domestic violence. This included monthly and quarterly coordination meetings to share progress, challenges, and best practices.
• Legal Aid and Court Cases: When mediation failed, victims were guided through the legal system, with support provided for filing cases and navigating court procedures. This ensured that perpetrators were held accountable and victims received justice.

Project Outcomes and Impact

1. Increased Awareness: Reached thousands through community campaigns, media, and training programs.
2. Community Empowerment: Over 100 local members trained to address domestic violence.
3. Successful Mediations: Resolved 30 cases of domestic violence, ensuring safety and stability for victims.
4. Strengthened Legal Frameworks: Local institutions became more proactive in preventing child marriages and addressing domestic violence.
5. Holistic Support: Community Counseling Centers provided confidential support and legal assistance to victims.

Challenges Faced

• Cultural Barriers: Persistent societal norms normalized domestic violence.
• Limited Male Engagement: Resistance from men in acknowledging abusive behaviors.
• Access to Justice: Barriers to legal support, especially in rural areas.
• Social Stigma: Fear of societal judgment prevented victims from seeking help.

Lessons Learned and Recommendations

Lessons Learned

• Social norms require long-term efforts to change.
• Community involvement is essential for meaningful impact.
• Accessible legal support is critical for empowering victims.
• Continuous counseling ensures survivors’ long-term well-being.

Recommendations

• Enhance male involvement in awareness programs.
• Strengthen collaborations with local authorities.
• Expand legal aid activities in rural areas.
• Develop follow-up mechanisms for sustained support.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The “Combating Domestic Violence Project” has significantly contributed to raising awareness, empowering communities, and supporting survivors in Kushtia. While the challenges remain, the project’s success underscores the importance of continued advocacy and community engagement to address domestic violence.

Future Directions

• Expand the project to more unions and districts.
• Increase partnerships with national and international stakeholders.
• Develop advanced training programs for community leaders.
• Strengthen monitoring and evaluation for greater impact.

Call to Action

Join our journey to combat domestic violence and create safer communities. Contact FAIR today to learn how you can contribute!