The government of Saudi Arabia is not noted for taking quick action. When it comes to the issue of child, spousal, and domestic abuse, however, it appears to be moving with great alacrity. While the problem is an old one and a response is long overdue, it has only been over the past few years that society, the media, and government have started to pay attention in concert. Having started, they all now appear to be moving to curb the abuses.

Saudi Gazette reports that the Saudi Council of Ministers has completed its study of the problem and is about to propose new laws to fix it. The proposals will be sent to the Shoura Council and then on to the King. Proposals address the issues not only of physical violence, but also child marriages and the difficulties divorced women face in obtaining custody of their children.

Study on abuse draft law completed
Saeed Al-Bahis
DAMMAM – The committee formed by the Council of Ministers’ Board of Experts has completed its study of the draft law presented by King Khaled Charitable Foundation on violence against women and children.
Al-Jawhara Al-Anqari, the Deputy Chairman of the Human Rights Society, said the focus on children and women is because there have been several cases of violence against them. She noted the study will be submitted to the Shoura Council before it is forwarded to King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
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