France will become the first country in the world to ban 'psychological violence' within marriage later this year.
The new law, which would also apply to co-habiting couples, would see people getting criminal records for insulting their loved ones during domestic arguments.
Electronic tagging would be used on repeat offenders, according to the country's prime minister, Francois Fillon, who announced the law.
Psychological violence is perhaps one of the most under-acknowledged and under-reported forms of domestic/partner abuse; it is also extremely hard to define. Therefore, statisics often fall short in truly quantifying the number of victims of psychological abuse (This includes spousal as well as child abuse. I have read through several studies and some cite the psychological abuse rate at above 80 %. Although many studies are outdated, there are current trends indicating this number is not declining. I admit I have more research to do on this matter, and I will update where possible with new numbers and information regarding these numbers.)
As the article points out, opponents of the law state it is a gimmicky, publicity friendly law, that will fail to protect any victim from harm. Opponents also say tracking “repeat offenders” will become very tricky and could exacerbate abusive situations, rather than prevent further violence, psychological or otherwise, from happening. Furthermore, the question of human rights, institutionalized policing and electronic-tracking/monitoring of offenders skims a very fine political and moral line.
Legislators in favor of the new law argue it will specifically benefit victims who suffer from death threats and constant manipulation at the hand of their partner.
The law is particularly aimed at protecting women who currently suffer the worst attacks of this kind, ranging from off-hand comments about their appearance to threats of physical violence.
French Prime Minister Francois Fillon said electronic tagging would be used on repeat offenders
Mr Fillon said: 'It's an important step forward as the creation of this offence will allow us to deal with the most insidious situations - situations that leave no visible scars, but which leave victims torn up inside.'
On a personal note, I feel this law is an important step towards addressing and preventing spousal abuse. It may not do anything more than bring light to a very personal and sensitive subject, but even that is a huge step forward. Too long have these crimes gone un-reported, un-treated and un-acknowledged. It is time to bring partner abuse and domestic violence issues out of the dark and into the bright lights of the public sphere.
-Sophia
