Domestic violence remains persistent: It's time to make home safe again
Summary
Domestic violence remains prevalent in Nepal, with many women experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse at home, primarily from intimate partners and family members. Deep-rooted patriarchy and societal norms justify such violence, making home an unsafe place for many women. Support services and legal provisions exist, but awareness and long-term gender norm changes are essential to ensure safety.
Key Points
- 27% of Nepali women have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their husbands or intimate partners.
- 81% of physical violence perpetrators are current husbands or intimate partners; mothers-in-law and in-laws also contribute to abuse.
- Patriarchal norms normalize domestic violence, with some men and women justifying a husband's right to beat his wife under certain conditions.
- Support includes legal aid, counseling, safe shelters, and a toll-free hotline (1145), but many women remain unaware or choose not to report due to fear, stigma, or economic dependency.
