DOMESTIC violence continues to be a challenge for every society. Many governments are implementing strategies and programmes to mitigate this dreadful problem. Several of these strategies have yielded positive results and significantly reduced domestic violence. However, there remains a need to reduce further and ultimately eradicate this abuse.
It is generally expected that individuals will build rather than destroy their families. Every family is a valuable resource and, if utilised properly, can produce great results for all its members and the wider community.

Domestic violence affects individuals, families, communities, and entire nations. Since neither the perpetrator nor the victim benefits from domestic violence, everyone must take a stand against it. Often, domestic violence fragments families, which can also negatively affect the organisations where those individuals are employed. Extended families must be mindful not to contribute to domestic violence knowingly. Neighbours, too, can play an important role in preventing abuse.

Defining Domestic Violence
The United Nations defines domestic violence as:
“A pattern of behaviour in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse is physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviours that frighten, intimidate, terrorise, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure, or wound someone. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. It can occur within a range of relationships including couples who are married, living together or dating. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels” (United Nations, n.d.).

Section 1: Domestic Violence and Its Contributing Factors
Domestic violence harms many people. While some may believe it only affects the victim, numerous others—including organisations—are impacted as well. Sometimes, when perpetrators reflect on their actions, they recognise their mistakes, but by then, it may be too late to make amends.

No specific gender is solely responsible for domestic violence, and there must be no finger-pointing. Every human being has a responsibility to act with maturity and rational thought.
Children often emulate what they observe from their parents. No country is immune to domestic violence; therefore, every nation and all people must be engaged in the effort to reduce and eliminate it.

The impact of domestic violence is far-reaching. When it spills from a household into a community, everyone in that community must take action to reduce it and encourage mutual protection.
Everyone should learn to recognise the signs that someone may be a victim of domestic violence. These signs may be subtle—such as withdrawal from social interaction or loss of appetite—or more visible when abuse becomes physical. Despite medicine and therapy, the physical and emotional effects of domestic violence can linger long after the incident.

Section 2: Everyone Should Take Action to Prevent Domestic Violence
No one can fight domestic violence alone—everyone must be involved. Though the contributions required may vary, each person can play a role.
Men are not the only contributors to domestic violence, but they are a vital part of the solution. When men gather, they should take time to encourage one another to behave positively and reject violence. Men who have learned to control their temper and actions should support others who struggle. Sometimes, walking away, regaining composure, and choosing a different way to address conflict is the best course of action.

Likewise, women also have a responsibility to avoid provoking or escalating conflict. Words can heal or harm, and women must use theirs to uplift rather than tear down. At times, silence may be the wiser response when angry.

Both men and women should refrain from seeking extramarital affairs to cope with issues in their relationships. Instead, couples should consider counselling to resolve their challenges and move forward together.

Governments and NGOs must continue to invest in training and financial resources to reduce domestic violence. Individuals and organisations alike should also contribute to this mission. Seminars and workshops are valuable tools for raising awareness and promoting positive behaviour.

Religious organisations also play a critical role in the fight against domestic violence. They can provide safe, confidential spaces for people to share and seek help while also offering counselling to address the social, emotional, and spiritual issues that may contribute to abuse.

Even entertainment venues such as bars and clubs can contribute positively. Bouncers and security personnel help maintain order and prevent conflict when alcohol is involved, helping to reduce incidents of domestic violence.

Television and radio stations also have a platform to inform and educate the public. Announcers and DJs should ensure their content does not promote abusive behaviours. Music, a powerful influence, should be used to promote unity and family togetherness—not division.

Children, too, are an important part of the movement against domestic violence. However, education is key—they must be taught how to recognise the signs and understand their role in building safe and respectful relationships.

Learn More
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