The Ministry of Labor and Social Development has confirmed that it is dealing firmly with all cases related to domestic violence and all kinds of physical and psychological threats to children and mothers. In a tweet, the ministry illustrated the various stages of action taken to deal with cases of child molestation or harassment of women when they are reported – from the moment it receives a call on 1919, to classification and determination of the seriousness of the case, and protection and medical care. The ministry said it communicates with the victim and abused persons, whether a child or a woman, taps the security authorities, and verifies the cases. The ministry subsequently provides guidance, counseling services, shelters the victims, and follows up the cases with the competent authorities. The procedures also include conducting case studies, services to the abused child or woman, and referral to the protection centers, which it has opened for victims of domestic violence, harassment and molestation. Earlier unknown to people in Saudi Arabia, harassment is now a serious phenomenon that requires decisive actions. Victims used to be silent if they are abused due to the possibility of social stigma, but in recent times they have been taking to social media with videos and photographs to highlight the problem. A study has shown that harassment in all its verbal and physical form is on the rise. The Shoura Council is currently studying penalties to be imposed on these tormentors of innocents.
