During the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions such as quarantine, curfew, and other forms of movement restriction are considered one of the necessary health measures that can save millions of lives. For women and girls, however, they can increase the risk of violence or even death.
Domestic violence and violence against women are global problems and violations of basic human rights. Women around the world are exposed to various forms of violence that are often prevalent in the family. This problem is pronounced in our country, despite measures adopted to prevent it.
Gender-based violence has become a common phenomenon in our society and a problem usually not approached in time. Unfortunately, many victims are afraid to express their thoughts and emotions openly and publicly. Victims’ stories often do not see the light of day; they remain a mere number in the statistics on gender-based violence or a name and surname on death certificates.
Gender-based violence is one problem that is not appropriately litigated in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Given the pervasive patriarchal system in Bosnian society, this problem is not only a victim’s problem, as it is often perceived but also a social problem.
The Down Syndrome Center from Banja Luka is the only social welfare institution in Bosnia and Herzegovina building capacity for people with Down Syndrome through its social rehabilitation program.