After a decade of war, what is the situation for women in Daraa?

After a decade of war, what is the situation for women in Daraa?
Mais Al-Asaad – Naseeb

The intensity of violence in Daraa has recently increased significantly, and women have been greatly affected. Many women in the region are subjected to various forms of psychological and physical violence, including beating, humiliation, and even murder.

In a recent incident, the first of its kind in Daraa, a man attacked his wife with a sharp tool, leading to her immediate death. Upon investigation, it was revealed that there were several disputes between them. When the wife informed her family, they advised her to endure and return home to avoid being labeled as divorced.

This incident, the first of its kind, may not be the last unless the underlying conditions causing such incidents change.

Violence against women, according to global studies, is one of the most widespread forms of violence worldwide. Although there are no precise statistics on its prevalence in Daraa, it is noticeably significant. Various factors contribute to the widespread violence, including the ongoing war leading to the proliferation of weapons and drugs, resulting in moral decline, the absence of religious and social constraints, a decline in women’s general culture, and their lack of knowledge about their rights and duties.

Economic conditions also play a role in the spread of violence against women. The deterioration of material conditions and the lack of job opportunities for men affect their behavior towards their families. Cultural heritage also plays a role in violence against women, as some still believe that men have the right to hit and insult women because they are men and hold the upper hand.

Violence against women generates many negative effects that reflect on the women themselves, their families, and society. Women may suffer severe psychological pressures that lead to depression or even suicide, which has become somewhat common in Daraa after a number of incidents.

The family is a mirror of this violence, as children may develop violent behavioral disorders that affect their behavior at school and, consequently, the entire society.

The alarming spread of violence in general and against women in particular compels us to search for solutions to further curb its spread. The community must unite, and each individual should take responsibility for protecting women by emphasizing their vital role through organizations and institutions dedicated to this matter. It is essential to organize meetings and dialogues that support and protect women from recurring incidents of violence against them.

There is also a need to promote the concept of nonviolence and its importance in society. It is the optimal way to resolve conflicts and spread a culture of listening and dialogue instead of shouting and hitting. Additionally, women should be educated by encouraging them to complete their education, find suitable professions, and attend seminars on family education for both genders to learn problem-solving through dialogue and nonviolence.

Based on the reality we live in, some may see violence as a quick and effective solution, but reality says otherwise. The harm caused by violence is always greater than its repair.