Domestic violence in Saudi Arabia

The lifetime prevalence of domestic violence in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be between 20%-39% for women, depending on the region in which they live. A 2015 study found that 20% of women visiting primary care centers in Riyadh had experienced domestic violence in the past year.^[1]

Further, Saudi Arabia has a guardianship system for women. A man, typically a husband or father, is legally responsible for a woman's choices. In addition to greatly limiting women's freedoms, this poses an issue for women who wish to report domestic violence. An estimated 90% of abusers are also women's guardians.^[2] Women are often not permitted to use the phone or leave the house without their guardian's permission, making discrete reporting impossible for many in abusive situations.^[3]

In 2013, Saudi Arabia made domestic violence illegal for the first time following a viral DV awareness campaign.^[4][5][6] The bill, called the Law for Protection from Abuse, criminalized physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, as well requiring employees to report any abuse they witness in the workplace. The Ministry of Social Affairs also established the Domestic Violence Protection Programme, as well as a national hotline to report suspected cases of abuse.^[1]

It is difficult to ascertain the impact that the law has had on rates of domestic violence. Reports of DV incidents have increased, which is likely a result of increased reporting rather than increased abuse. There are difficulties in enforcing the law, including obstacles posed by the male guardianship system and broad judicial discretion.^[3]