The Shan Women's Action Network (SWAN) has recently reported a concerning rise in sexual and gender-based violence within Shan State.
SWAN's data, collected from March to April, reveals a distressing number of cases involving violence against women in Shan State. The reported incidents include 7 cases of domestic violence, 2 cases of rape, 1 case of minor rape, 2 cases of sexual coercion, and 1 case of intimate partner violence.
According to the statement, the incidents occurred in various locations within Shan State. Specifically, the crimes took place in Yatsauk (Lawksawk) Township, Mongnai Township, and Mawkmai in Southern Shan State. Additionally, incidents were reported in Kyaukme Township and Hsipaw Township in Northern Shan State. According to a SWAN official speaking to the Shan Herald, data collected from March to April 2023 indicates an increase in incidents compared to the previous year (2022).
"We gathered information from various townships in both the southern and northern regions of Shan State, although there could be more we haven't reached yet. Our data reveals a troubling surge in instances of domestic violence and sexual violence since 2022. We have also witnessed an alarming upswing in incidents of child rape throughout 2023," a SWAN official told the Shan Herald.
One of the reported cases involves an incident where a 60-year-old man raped and killed a 16-year-old girl. All the domestic violence cases documented by SWAN are physical assaults.
The SWAN statement also highlighted that the majority of these cases were resolved solely through local customs, rules, and procedures.
A SWAN official emphasized that the root causes of violence against women are the pervasive influence of chauvinism in society and the inadequacy of the justice system in dealing with such acts of violence.
"The reason violence against women is on the rise is because there is a lack of justice and effective solutions to address these crimes. It's not because women are weak or the public is unaware. The real issue lies in the authorities indifference and neglect," she said.
At present, the SWAN team is collaborating with relevant organizations in the region to deliver crucial aid to the victims, including medical supplies, financial support, and other forms of assistance. Additionally, they are offering psychosocial support to those affected and striving to provide the best possible support to the families of the victims.
A SWAN official said, "If a woman has been sexually assaulted or raped, the victim should be sent to the hospital for medical examination and records as soon as possible." Then they should be taken to a safe place as soon as possible. Emotional support should be given to the victim. Then depending on what the survivor wants to do for justice, we need to continue.”
Furthermore, women who wish to report incidents of sexual violence, including gender-based violence, are encouraged to reach out to the Shan Women's Action Network (SWAN).
Currently, Kyaukme Township has the highest number of cases of domestic violence against women and gender-based violence, with 7 reported incidents of domestic violence.
