Types of Violence Against Women in Iranian Kurdistan

Domestic Violence:
One of the most common forms of violence against women in Iranian Kurdistan is domestic violence. Many women in this region endure physical and psychological abuse due to economic, cultural, and traditional issues. This violence often remains hidden within homes and is ignored by society.

Social and Cultural Violence:
In many Kurdish communities, women face immense cultural and social pressures. Unwritten rules that view women as subordinates result in significant psychological and social harm. The imposition of traditional roles, such as considering women solely responsible for the family and household, places them in vulnerable positions.

State and Systematic Violence:
Violence perpetrated by government institutions and the judicial system, rooted in anti-women laws in Iran, casts a shadow over Kurdish women. Many women subjected to domestic violence cannot seek legal assistance due to the ineffective enforcement of protective laws. Furthermore, women activists involved in human rights and politics, particularly in Kurdistan provinces, are targeted by security forces and denied their rights.

Statistics and Data

Accurate statistics on violence against women in Iranian Kurdistan are unavailable due to restrictions on freedom of information. However, human rights organizations report an increase in domestic violence, especially during times of economic and social hardship. According to data from local and international organizations, violence against women in Kurdistan provinces is unofficially high. Yet, cultural and social barriers prevent many cases from being officially documented.

The Hana Human Rights Organization has recorded the following data over the past year:
 • At least 45 women were arrested in Kurdistan.
 • 13 women were collectively sentenced to 278 months in prison.
 • 2 women were sentenced to death.
 • 1 woman was subjected to 74 lashes.
 • 49 women committed suicide, highlighting the severe consequences of violence and social pressures.

Psychological and Social Impacts of Violence

Violence against women has profound effects on their mental and emotional well-being. It not only impacts their physical health but also significantly affects their mental health. Many survivors of violence suffer from issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These effects ripple through families and communities, as affected women often struggle to reach their full potential.

Examples of Violence Victims

In Iranian Kurdistan, many women suffer harm from domestic and social violence. Some are forced to leave their homes and families after enduring repeated abuse, while others lose their lives. Numerous cases exist of Kurdish women who silently fall victim to violence under the shadow of traditional cultures. Suicide is another tragic outcome of domestic violence; in the past year, 49 women in Iranian Kurdistan committed suicide, 6 of whom were children under 18 years old.

Local and International Responses

In recent years, human rights organizations and women’s groups in Iranian Kurdistan have made extensive efforts to support women and combat violence against them. However, they continue to face significant obstacles, including political repression, legal limitations, and cultural barriers.

Internationally, human rights organizations, including “Hana,” have criticized the situation of women in Iran and called for serious action to protect women’s rights.

Challenges and Obstacles

One of the biggest challenges in addressing violence against women in Kurdistan is cultural and social resistance. Many families still view domestic violence as a private matter and are reluctant to report it to legal authorities. Additionally, anti-women laws within the Islamic Republic system are fundamental obstacles to structural and legal reforms needed to support women.

Recommendations and Solutions

 • Public Awareness: Raising public awareness and educating communities is essential to combat violence against women and change negative cultural and social attitudes toward women.
 • Strengthening Protective Laws: Reforming and effectively implementing laws to protect women, particularly in cases of domestic violence, is crucial.
 • Establishing Shelters and Support Centers: Creating and strengthening support centers for women survivors of violence can significantly help them rebuild their lives and mental health.

Conclusion

Violence against women in Iranian Kurdistan is a serious and complex issue requiring immediate attention and effective actions. Combating this phenomenon is only possible through cultural, legal, and social changes. This issue must be treated as a national and global priority to ensure women can live in a safe environment free from fear of violence. Notably, the Hana Human Rights Organization has made significant efforts in this regard.

Hana Human Rights Organization