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The Ministry of Family and Social Services has announced the fifth National Action Plan for Combating Violence Against Women for 2026-2030.
The plan includes spiritual and psychosocial counseling services not only for victims but also for perpetrators of violence.
The 2026-2030 National Action Plan, prepared by the ministry, addresses violence against women not only from a victim protection perspective but also focuses on the rehabilitation of perpetrators, increasing societal awareness, and preventive measures.
The plan was developed in cooperation with public institutions, universities, local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
It includes five main goals, 15 strategies, and around 130 specific activities, covering areas such as a violence-free life and culture of respect, risk-oriented and specialized intervention, psychological well-being and socioeconomic empowerment, behavioral transformation, and social participation.
One of the most notable aspects of the plan is the introduction of spiritual and psychosocial counseling and rehabilitation services for perpetrators of violence. This marks a shift from a solely victim-centered approach to a more holistic, perpetrator-inclusive strategy.
Programs will focus on anger management, empathy development, and behavioral awareness. Special attention will be given to cases where substance abuse or mental health issues are contributing factors.
The goal is not only to punish perpetrators but also to rehabilitate them and reintegrate them into society, contributing to the broader aim of a “violence-free” culture.
The plan also prioritizes the protection and empowerment of female victims. Measures include legal protection, safe shelters, and improved access to justice.
Socioeconomic support includes employment assistance, flexible or remote working options, child care, and transportation support to help women regain economic independence and reintegrate into society.
Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are also key components, ensuring transparency and accountability through annual reports and systematic data collection.
The new action plan offers a comprehensive approach to combating violence against women, incorporating rehabilitation, societal transformation, and preventive measures alongside protection and enforcement. Perpetrator-focused interventions, psychosocial support, women’s empowerment, and systematic monitoring are expected to create long-term impact.
However, the plan’s success depends on the quality of programs, availability of professional staff, sufficient resources, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. Especially for spiritual counseling and rehabilitation, professionalism, impartiality and effective supervision are crucial.
The 2026-2030 National Action Plan presents an ambitious and hopeful vision for combating violence against women, but the real test will be whether it can be fully implemented beyond paper commitments.
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