Domestic violence casts a long and dark shadow, affecting not only the immediate victims but also leaving a long-lasting negative impact on the lives of innocent children. The harrowing tale of Farah, a seven-year-old attending primary school, serves as a poignant example of the profound impact of violence against women within the confines of their homes.
Farah’s education became collateral damage in the face of a perilous situation. Her mother, a young woman facing the challenges of an unplanned pregnancy, found herself entangled in an abusive relationship. The escalation of violence reached a point where Farah and her mother had to flee their home to escape the clutches of Farah’s abusive father.
Furthermore, Farah’s mother, now burdened with the responsibility of two children—seven-year-old Farah and three-year-old Dila—was forced to navigate the challenges of single parenthood without a stable job. Her decision to leave the abusive home was not an escape from hardships, but rather a courageous act to protect her children.
Currently, Farah’s mother is in the midst of a grueling divorce process. However, the journey to liberation is marred by financial constraints. The divorce fees which amount to 1.5 million rupiah pose a significant obstacle, exacerbated by the husband’s reluctance to finalize the separation. During the legal battles, Farah’s mother is forced to shoulder the addition burden of covering all the administrative costs of the trial rather than sharing this cost with the husband.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, Harapan Fian, stepped in to provide assistance to Farah and her mother. In this case, we worked with Rekso Dyah Utami Yogyakarta to ensure Farah’s safety and support to overcome the trauma she experienced. We also collaborated to provide legal assistance to her mother, so she does not pay 1.5 million rupiah for her divorce process.
The narrative of Farah underscores the urgent need for societal awareness regarding the repercussions of domestic violence. Beyond safeguarding the immediate victims, it is crucial to recognize the secondary victims—children like Farah, who bear the weight of a trauma not of their making. Collective efforts from society, government, and non-governmental organizations are imperative to protect women and children from the horrors of domestic violence and provide the support necessary for their recovery.
Thanks to the support given, Farah is now able to go back to school. Farah along with her mother and sister are starting a new chapter in their lives knowing they are in a safe home.