Is Crime Against Women a Social or Criminal Issue?

Crime against anyone is a grave social issue, but why should crime against women or men be any different? The mistreatment of women is not only a social issue, but also a deeply rooted religious and social problem in many regions. In Muslim-led countries, antiquated laws are still enforced today, making women second-class citizens.

Religious Laws and Gender Discrimination

In countries where Muslim laws are practiced, women face barbaric laws from the 5th century. For instance, under some conservative interpretations of Islamic tradition, young girls are married off to much older pedophiles, and women are forced to marry their rapists or face death by stoning at the hands of their families. They can be beaten by their husbands, fathers, or brothers at will, and are often silenced by those who consider them disobedient to the Quran or Mullahs.

The Western Perspective

In contrast, most Western countries treat women as equals in all aspects. While women have traditionally been seen as the support system for men, the advent of equal rights has challenged traditional gender roles. Despite progress, there are still instances where women are not treated equally, highlighting the need to scrutinize social norms that perpetuate gender discrimination.

Social and Criminal Implications

Women are disproportionately at risk for both rape and domestic violence. This is not merely a crime but a social issue. Social norms and cultural expectations sometimes contribute to the acceptance of such behavior. Men may think it acceptable to treat women poorly, while women may stay in abusive relationships due to cultural expectations or fear of retribution. Law enforcement and judicial systems should ensure that women receive justice, regardless of gender, but social changes are still necessary to address the root causes of such issues.

Legal and Cultural Issues

Each country has its own legal and cultural framework regarding women's rights. In some conservative societies, husbands and fathers retain the right to control their wives and daughters. These controls can range from restrictive dress codes to physical punishment, and it is often backed by the threat of violence because physically harming a woman is not considered a crime.

Conclusion

Both social and criminal issues intersect when addressing crimes against women. While laws must protect women, societal norms and cultural practices also play a crucial role in perpetuating these crimes. It is essential to examine and address these social aspects to create lasting change and ensure that women are treated with dignity and equality.