Woman forced to divorce
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Stop domestic violence
© AI |
In August 2005 a court in northern Saudi Arabia ordered Fatima’s divorce from her husband, Mansur, on the grounds that he was from a tribe of lower status than her tribe and that he failed to disclose this when he married her. The court’s decision is based on a customary rule known as Takafu’ or Kufu’. The couple, who are happily married and have two children, do not wish to divorce.
Since the court ruling Fatima has been living in al-Dammam Prison with her one-year-old son for fear of being forcibly returned to her brother’s home. As a divorcee, she would be committing adultery if she tried to contact her husband. In addition to being a criminal offence punishable by at least flogging, this would put her at serious risk of domestic violence.
By living in al-Dammam Prison, Fatima has received short visits from her husband and her daughter who lives with him. The divorce ruling was upheld in January by the appeal court. Following the appeal court ruling, police were reported to have tried to take Fatima to her brother’s home. She refused to go with them, preferring the security of the prison. Prison staff have allowed her to remain in prison, but she remains at risk of being handed over to her brother and of becoming a victim of domestic violence
Although women in Saudi Arabia are increasingly speaking up for their rights, they continue to be subjected to severe forms of discrimination, which facilitate and perpetuate domestic violence.
Take action!
Please write, calling on the Saudi Arabian authorities not to enforce the discriminatory divorce judgment against Fatima A, and not to return her to her brother’s home against her wish.
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16 March 2007 - MDE 23/012/2007 - WA 08/07
