30 January 2017

News Story: Concerns Raised Over Rise In Violence Against Helmand Women

By Abdullah Achekzai

Helmand Women’s Affairs Directorate on Saturday said they are concerned about a sharp increase in violence against women in the province due to rising insecurity, unwanted traditions and a lack of public awareness on women’s rights. 

According to the directorate, at least 20 cases of violence against women were registered last month, most of which included bad dadan – where girls and women are given to settle a dispute between families, often a blood dispute.

“The situation of women is a matter of concern in insecure districts [in Helmand] and women in these districts have no contact with local government offices. However, the problems of women who have migrated to Lashkargah city have been addressed to a large extent,” said Jamila Niazi, chairperson of Women’s Affairs Directorate in Helmand. 

Meanwhile, a number of rights activists in Helmand called on relevant organizations to address the issue and reduce violence against women in the province.


Read the full story at TOLOnews