Violence Against Women Is Never Acceptable – Speak Up, Seek Help, and Break the Cycle

By Juliana Bistoquet, GPS Seychelles

Domestic violence is one of the most pervasive and devastating human rights violations in our society. No woman should ever live in fear of physical harm from a partner, yet tragically, many suffer in silence. Violence against women is never justified—not by anger, not by frustration, and certainly not by provocation. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, it is crucial to act immediately: report the abuse, seek help, and leave. Staying silent not only endangers your life but also enables the abuser to continue harming others.

Violence Is a Choice – There Are No Excuses

A common but dangerous myth is that a woman’s behavior can "justify" a man’s violent reaction. This belief shifts blame onto the victim and minimizes the abuser’s responsibility. The truth is simple: violence is always a choice. Anger is a natural emotion, but how we respond to it defines our character. A mature, responsible man knows how to control his impulses—he walks away, seeks calm, or communicates without aggression.

That said, healthy relationships require mutual respect from both partners. While no provocation ever excuses abuse, women should also strive to de-escalate conflicts rather than fuel them. Insults, physical aggression, or deliberate antagonism can create volatile situations. However, even in the most heated arguments, a man must never raise his hand to a woman. Period.

The Dangerous Cycle of Abuse

Many women stay in abusive relationships because they hope their partner will change. They may rationalize the violence: "It was just once," "He was stressed," or "I pushed him too far." But abuse is rarely a one-time event. Studies show that if a man hits a woman once, he is far more likely to do it again—and the violence often escalates over time.

Abusers often follow a predictable pattern:

1. Tension-building – Arguments become more frequent, and the victim feels like she’s "walking on eggshells."

2. Explosion – The abuser lashes out physically or emotionally.

3. Honeymoon phase – The abuser apologizes, promises to change, and acts lovingly… until the cycle repeats.

This manipulation makes it hard for women to leave. But love should never hurt. If a man truly respects you, he will never use violence to control or punish you.

Why Reporting Abuse Is Essential

Too many cases of domestic violence go unreported due to fear, shame, or financial dependence. Some women worry about retaliation, social stigma, or not being believed. Others fear for their children’s safety. But staying silent has devastating consequences:

• It normalizes abuse, teaching children that violence is an acceptable way to resolve conflict.

• It emboldens the abuser, making future attacks more likely.

• It leaves other women at risk, as abusers often repeat their behavior with new partners.

By reporting abuse, you break this cycle. In Seychelles, domestic violence is a crime, and there are laws to protect survivors. You do not have to suffer in silence—help is available.

How to Safely Leave an Abusive Relationship

If you are in immediate danger, call the police. If you are planning to leave, consider these steps:

1. Document the abuse – Take photos of injuries, save threatening messages, and keep a journal of incidents.

2. Reach out to trusted support – Confide in family, friends, or organizations like GPS Seychelles.

3. Create a safety plan – Have emergency contacts, a packed bag, and a safe place to go.

4. Seek legal protection – Apply for a protection order through the Family Tribunal or courts.

Remember: You are not alone. Organizations like GPS Seychelles, the Department of Social Services, and NGOs like CARE can provide shelter, counseling, and legal aid.

A Call to Men and Women: Break the Silence

To men: Real strength lies in restraint. If you struggle with anger, seek help—attend counseling, join support groups, or talk to a mentor. Violence doesn’t make you powerful; it makes you dangerous. Teach your sons that true masculinity respects women, not dominates them.

To women: Never accept abuse as "normal." If your partner hits you, it will happen again. Leave before it escalates. Teach your daughters their worth and your sons to respect boundaries.

To bystanders: If you suspect abuse, speak up. Offer support, listen without judgment, and help victims access resources.

Conclusion: A Society Free from Violence Starts with Us

Domestic violence thrives in silence. By speaking out, supporting survivors, and holding abusers accountable, we can create a Seychelles where every woman feels safe in her own home.

If you are experiencing abuse, act now—your life is worth protecting. If you know someone in danger, be their voice. Together, we can end the cycle of violence.

Juliana Bistoquet. GPS Seychelles

Need Help? Contact:

• Police Emergency: 999

  
  

You are stronger than you think. You deserve safety, respect, and love—without fear.