Political Dialogue Forum member Amal Bugaighis believes that the incident of a father killing his seven children before ending his own life in the Hawari district of Benghazi once again sheds light on the violence faced by vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. In exclusive statements to Asharq Al-Awsat, she called for a review of the legislative system and for stricter penalties.
Bugaighis explained that laws concerning women focus on protecting the right to work, while legislation protecting them from domestic violence is absent, as is protection for children who “do not have a hotline” for help when facing psychological or physical abuse. She stresses that addressing these loopholes requires clear provisions that criminalize domestic violence and provide effective protection and reporting channels.
Bugaighis criticized the absence of a law to combat violence against women and the lack of psychological and social support centers, expressing her regret over the role of some social workers in schools who “limit themselves to monitoring girls’ attire instead of detecting signs of violence.” She believes that the educational, health, and social systems are required to build referral and early intervention channels that can detect the early indicators of violence and provide care and follow-up.
She pointed out that tribal alignment often sides with the husband, “no matter how severe his violence,” while wives’ families are persuaded to drop complaints for fear of divorce and the consequences of providing for and raising children. This leads to the continuation of the cycle of violence rather than its deterrence. She stresses that enforcing rights requires protecting victims from social pressures and facilitating their access to justice.