Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette JEDDAH – In light of local criticism of the 24-hour domestic abuse hotline in Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Social Affairs recently proposed a new mechanism to further improve the service. Many women in the Kingdom expressed concern about the viability of the hotline and whether it helps victims. “Victims of abuse can call the 1919 emergency number and register their complaints through a voice mail system via the ministry's communications system and officials will follow up with them the next day,” Minister of Social Affairs Yusuf Al-Othaimeen told an Arabic daily. “The hotline frees women who previously could only go to police stations with their Mahram (male guardians). It is also a great solution for those who are abused by their Mahram. Now all we need to know is, does it really work and will people actually use it?” Tamara Habib, from Riyadh told Saudi Gazette. At present, the Center for Protection against Abuse at the ministry continues working from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. “The toll free number 1919, which people use to inform about cases of domestic violence, is not any different from the other toll free numbers of the communication companies. You dial it and you will immediately be asked to wait ‘as all the employees are busy at the moment serving other customers.” This reply is always automatically repeated... Is this a message from the Ministry of Social Affairs that domestic violence is allowed between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.? If not, why are calls about domestic violence not received after 10 p.m.?” Mohammed Al-Harbe wrote in Okaz Arabic language daily newspaper. “I mean it is great that Saudis can now report domestic abuse directly and anonymously. But no outline has been given. We are unsure of what it can do for us and for the expat community including maids who are also victimized in the country,” Samia Aziz, from Jeddah told Saudi Gazette. In a move aimed at eliminating violence against women in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia issued “Protection from Abuse” law earlier this week. The law came into effect on Aug. 26, months after a nationwide campaign by the NGO King Khalid Foundation (KKF) to combat growing domestic violence against women. Offenders may face up to a year in prison, a fine ranging from SR5,000 to SR50,000 or both. In case of repetition of the crime, the punishment will be doubled. According to the law, anyone who knows about any cases of abuse must report (to authorities concerned) immediately.
