line and domestic abuse register will be launched next year as part of efforts to help curb the growing incidence of the problem in the Kingdom. The initiative was announced by Princess Adela Bint Abdullah, Vice Chairman of the National Family Security Program, at a symposium held recently. The gathering was organized in cooperation with the King Abdul Aziz Charitable Society and Saudi Law Center for Training. Delegates at the symposium considered the role played by security agencies and the judiciary in helping to curb the abuse of children, women and the elderly. Princess Adela said the issue of domestic violence “cannot be solved with a magic wand.” A scientific approach was needed. She called for joint efforts from the media, education bodies, the judiciary and various protection committees to tackle the problem. She said security agencies, human rights bodies, the media, health and social sectors will be invited to take part in efforts to prevent domestic abuse. She said that a Domestic Violence Studies chair has been established at King Abdul Aziz University's Arts and Humanities Faculty. Dr. Abdullah Al-Sharif, the Secretary General of the King Abdul Aziz Charitable Society, said the society has inaugurated a family development center that provides family counseling. Princess Adela said there are currently 37 centers, formed under health care establishments in the Kingdom, that contribute to detecting and reporting cases of abuse against vulnerable members of society. In a statement after the symposium, she stated that the centers were set up because of the government's concern over the welfare of children and families.
