Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Dacca (Agenzia Fides) – Acid attacks that disfigure women are decreasing: the trend is welcomed favourably by the Church and organisations for the protection of human rights. The Government has taken preventive measures (such as restrictions in the retail sale of acid) and more severe penalties to combat the phenomenon of acid attacks against women. The statistics confirm a positive decrease: according to the Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF), the local NGO that monitors the phenomenon, in 2010 there were 153 reported cases, while in 2002 there were 490. Between 2000 and 2009, the total number of cases reached 2,198, but only 439 offenders were charged.
The phenomenon, known as “a kind of terrorism”, is a concern for women who refuse marriage proposals or oppose the will and desires of men. For the vengeful men who victimise women, there is a tacit tolerance and, frequently, also impunity.
“We are pleased that, at a state level, there is an increased awareness of the need to stop this horrible practice, borne from a chauvinist mentality that considers women inferior and without dignity,” Fides is told by Father Silvia Garelli, an Xaverian missionary in Bangladesh for many years. The missionary continues: “It is a sign that in society and politics, awareness of the proper respect for the dignity and rights of women is growing. The status of women is slowly improving: today, women's education is compulsory up to grade 10 (ie. approximately 15 years of age), and this is, for example, a good reason to postpone weddings (often there are child-brides).”
Furthermore, “Christian organizations such as Caritas and World Vision promote projects to improve the social and economic status of women. Today, there are female artisan and merchant entrepreneurs in Bangladesh. There are writers and women involved in politics. Though with difficulty, the belief that a woman is independent, autonomous and free, is making its way. The Church is working towards this, especially in the field of education, which is the key to changing the current mentality,” concludes the missionary. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 12/2/2011)
