The results of Bhutan’s 2023 National Health Survey on gender-based violence should serve as a sobering wake-up call to the nation. The survey revealed that around 25 percent of Bhutanese women and girls believe it is justifiable for a man to beat his wife under certain circumstances, with nearly half of the respondents endorsing more than one justification for violence. These findings highlight a deep-rooted acceptance of domestic violence that demands urgent attention and action.
One of the most alarming aspects of this survey is the widespread belief that violence can be justified if a woman is unfaithful or neglects her children. Such attitudes, held by a significant portion of the population, reflect the persistence of patriarchal norms that not only subjugate women but also normalize abuse as a form of correction or control. This normalization is even more troubling when considering that 30 percent of respondents agreed with the statement that “A good wife obeys her husband even if she disagrees,” with acceptance increasing significantly with age.
The acceptance of violence, as the survey indicates, is not uniform across all demographics. Women with higher educational qualifications, for instance, were less likely to justify violence, with the lowest acceptance rates observed among those with certificates or diplomas. Similarly, acceptance of violence was higher among older women and those living in rural areas or within lower-income groups. These variations underscore the critical role that education, economic empowerment, and urbanization play in shaping attitudes towards gender-based violence.
However, the survey’s methodology has drawn some criticism, and rightfully so. A communications researcher pointed out that the design of the survey itself may have skewed the results, as respondents were not given an option to outright reject violence under any circumstances. This flaw could potentially inflate the perceived acceptance of violence and warrants a re-examination of how such sensitive issues are surveyed in the future.
Despite these methodological concerns, the survey’s findings cannot be ignored. They reveal a disturbing reality: many Bhutanese women still view violence as an acceptable response to certain behaviors, which perpetuates a cycle of abuse and victimization. This mindset is not only dangerous but also deeply entrenched, making it difficult to eradicate without comprehensive, systemic change.
Education emerges as a crucial tool in this battle. The data clearly shows that women with higher levels of education are less likely to justify violence. This suggests that educational initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and challenging harmful stereotypes could be effective in shifting these dangerous attitudes. Furthermore, raising awareness about the unacceptability of all forms of violence, regardless of the circumstances, must be a national priority.
There is also a need to challenge and dismantle the patriarchal values that contribute to the acceptance of violence. These values, which often depict women as subordinate to men, must be confronted both in the home and in public life. Cultural and religious leaders, educators, and policymakers all have a role to play in fostering an environment where violence is never seen as an acceptable solution to conflict.
Tashi, a de-suup, captured the essence of this issue when she remarked, “It is not justifiable for even parents to beat their children, let alone for a male partner to beat a woman.” Violence, whether within the home or elsewhere, should never be accepted as a means to resolve disputes. Instead, we must seek out non-violent, constructive approaches to address conflicts, promote dialogue, and empower individuals to make decisions free from fear of retribution.
In conclusion, the findings of the 2023 National Health Survey should galvanize us all to take a stand against domestic violence. While the survey may have its flaws, the broader message is clear: Bhutan has a long way to go in eradicating the acceptance of violence within its society. By investing in education, challenging patriarchal norms, and promoting gender equality, we can work towards a future where violence is never seen as justifiable and where every individual can live free from fear and harm. The time for change is now, and it begins with each of us.
