Seeking Justice for Physical and Sexual Violence against Women in Lebanese Society

Abstract

Violence against women has no definition in Lebanese law. Domestic violence, defined as violence happening within a household and between members of a family, is ruled by the general articles of the Lebanese Penal Code. The Lebanese Penal Code has only a very few articles punishing acts of violence that cause bodily harm or injury (Articles 554-559 - Legislative Decree 340/NI dated March 1, 1943). These articles address physical violence that can occur between any individuals, strangers or relatives, at any place, whether in the street, in a bar or anywhere else. Penalty categories for injuries range from six months to ten years in jail if the injury leads to disfigurement or mutilation. In the first category, the penalties are not applicable if the charges are dropped by the victim. Indeed, the absence of a special law prohibiting domestic violence in Lebanon makes this crime almost beyond punishment.