Abuse Against Women: Legislation, Health, and Where to Seek Help

Violence against women is a serious and persistent problem that affects millions of women worldwide. In Brazil, legislation has advanced to offer protection and support to victims, but much remains to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of women. This article addresses the main protective laws, the impact of violence on women's health, and the resources available for seeking help.

Protective Legislation for Women

Maria da Penha Law (Law No. 11.340/2006)

The Maria da Penha Law is one of the main Brazilian legislations aimed at protecting women against domestic and family violence. Created in 2006, the law establishes urgent protective measures, such as removing the aggressor from the home, prohibiting contact with the victim, and suspending gun permits. Additionally, the law provides for the creation of Specialized Police Stations for Women's Services (DEAMs) and multidisciplinary care centers.

Femicide Law (Law No. 13.104/2015)

The Femicide Law, enacted in 2015, amends the Penal Code to include femicide as a qualifying factor for homicide, increasing the penalty for cases where women are murdered due to their gender. This law is fundamental in recognizing the severity of hate crimes against women and promoting justice.

Other Laws and Regulations

In addition to the mentioned laws, Brazil has other important regulations, such as Law No. 13.641/2018, which criminalizes the violation of protective measures, and various international conventions ratified by the country, such as the Convention of Belém do Pará, which aims to prevent, punish, and eradicate violence against women.

Impact of Violence on Women's Health

Violence against women has devastating consequences for the physical and mental health of victims. Injuries, chronic diseases, and reproductive health problems are common among women who suffer violence. Additionally, psychological impacts include anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Health services play a crucial role in caring for victims. Specialized health units offer medical, psychological, and psychiatric care, as well as ongoing support programs to help women recover from the traumas suffered.

Where to Seek Help

Specialized Police Stations for Women's Services (DEAMs)

DEAMs are specialized police units for serving women victims of violence. At these stations, victims can file reports, request protective measures, and receive guidance on their rights.

Women's Assistance Reference Centers

These centers offer multidisciplinary services, including psychological, legal, and social support. They are fundamental in providing comprehensive support to victims, helping them rebuild their lives.

Dial 180

Dial 180 is a free telephone service that offers guidance and referrals for women in situations of violence. The service operates 24 hours a day, every day of the week, and can be accessed from anywhere in Brazil.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Various NGOs work in defending women's rights and offer support to victims of violence. These organizations provide services such as temporary shelter, legal assistance, and empowerment programs.

• Instituto Maria da Penha: Works in defending women's rights and promoting public policies to combat gender violence. Instituto Maria da Penha

• Agência Patrícia Galvão: Produces and disseminates information on women's rights and gender violence. Agência Patrícia Galvão

• Rede de Desenvolvimento Humano (REDEH): Promotes gender equality and offers support to women in situations of violence. REDEH

• Casa da Mulher Brasileira: Integrated care center offering legal, psychological, and social support services for women victims of violence. Casa da Mulher Brasileira

Digital Applications and Platforms

Digital tools, such as reporting and support apps, have proven effective in protecting women.

• SOS Mulher: Allows for quick police activation in emergency cases. SOS Mulher

• PenhaS: Offers information on rights, support services, and allows the creation of a support network among women. PenhaS

• Juntas: Connects women in situations of violence to support services and allows the creation of a safety network. Juntas

Questions and Answers

1. How can I seek help if I'm experiencing domestic violence?

You can seek help at Specialized Police Stations for Women's Services (DEAMs), Women's Assistance Reference Centers, or by calling the Dial 180 service. Additionally, NGOs and support apps are also available.

2. What precautions should I take when seeking help?

Look for a safe place to make the report and, if possible, bring personal documents and evidence of violence, such as photos, messages, and witnesses. It's also important to have a safety plan, such as informing friends or family about your situation.

3. What kind of evidence should I gather to report violence?

Gather evidence such as photos of injuries, threatening messages, audio or video recordings, and testimonies from people who witnessed the violence. This evidence is important to strengthen your complaint.

4. What are protective measures and how can I request them?

Protective measures are actions determined by the justice system to protect the victim, such as removing the aggressor and prohibiting contact. You can request them when filing a report at a DEAM or through a lawyer.

5. Where can I find psychological support?

Women's Assistance Reference Centers and specialized health units offer psychological support. NGOs can also provide this type of support.

Research Sources

• Maria da Penha Law (Law No. 11.340/2006)

• Femicide Law (Law No. 13.104/2015)

• Law No. 13.641/2018

• Convention of Belém do Pará

• Ministry of Health

• Federal Government Portal - Dial 180

• Examples of NGOs - Google