Domestic violence is not limited to beating. It includes sexual, emotional, verbal and economic abuse, and harmful practices such as forced and early marriage.
Domestic violence takes several forms, not only physical beating:
- Sexual violence: sexual assault.
- Physical violence: beating, slapping, repeated beating, or the use of an implement.
- Emotional and verbal violence: psychological exploitation.
- Economic violence: deprivation of resources such as inheritance, and of access to basic services.
- Harmful traditional practices: forced marriage and early marriage.
Why the classification matters
The Protection from Domestic Violence Law attaches legal consequences to each of these forms, including protection orders. Recognising that what is happening to you counts as violence is the first step towards asking for protection.
What to do
- Document what happens: dates, medical reports, messages.
- Contact the competent protection body or a lawyer to seek a protection order.
Articles here are general legal information for public awareness and are not legal advice on any specific matter. Every case has its own facts, and any decision needs a full review of your file.
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