iloubnan - Women leaders speak out against Domestic Violence - May 29, 2011

Women leaders of  both sides of the political divide marched from the Interior Affairs' ministry/Sanaye' to Riyad Solh Square to protest rife domestic and familial violence. Over than 50 NGOs and human rights' groups also partook in the march and were flanked by heavy police presence.

Women speakers demanded ratification of a House bill for the protection of house wives and the end to laws discriminating against women. Speakers stressed that domestic violence constituted a grave violation of human rights and that the government must protect its female citizens. They brought to attention that such a law-project was already in existence since last year and only needed minor amendment by parliament which was not yet forthcoming.