Domestic violence represents one of the most serious challenges facing modern society. Although legal mechanisms for the protection of victims have been strengthened in recent years, the number of reported cases of domestic violence remains a cause for concern. Particularly alarming is the fact that violence affects the most vulnerable categories of the population – women, children, the elderly, and individuals who are especially dependent on family members.

As a legal professional who has spent many years working in the field of criminal law protection of injured parties, I have had the opportunity throughout my professional career to participate in a large number of cases related to domestic violence, child protection, and the exercise of victims’ rights. The experience gained through working with victims demonstrates that behind every court case lies a human story marked by fear, uncertainty, and often prolonged suffering from various forms of abuse.

One of the greatest misconceptions among the public is the belief that domestic violence refers exclusively to physical abuse. In practice, cases of psychological violence, threats, humiliation, control of movement, isolation from family and friends, economic deprivation, and various forms of emotional manipulation are frequently encountered. These forms of abuse often remain invisible to others, yet their consequences can be just as severe as those caused by physical violence.

A particular problem is the fact that a large number of cases are never reported to the competent authorities. Victims often experience shame, fear of society’s reaction, or a lack of trust in institutions. In many cases, they are financially dependent on the abuser or believe that the situation will improve on its own. Numerous cases reveal that abuse had continued for months or even years before the first report was made to the police or the social welfare center.

Children represent an especially vulnerable category. Even when they are not direct victims of physical violence, children who grow up in households affected by violence suffer serious consequences. Professional studies, as well as everyday practice, confirm that witnessing violence can leave deep emotional and psychological scars that affect personality development, education, self-confidence, and the relationships a child will build later in life. For this reason, the protection of minors must be an absolute priority for all institutions.

It is important to emphasize that the fight against domestic violence does not begin in the courtroom. Judicial proceedings represent only the final stage in which the state responds to an already existing problem. The real fight must be carried out through prevention, education, and the early recognition of violent behavior. Continuous efforts are needed to raise public awareness, educate young people about healthy interpersonal relationships, and empower victims to seek help as soon as they recognize the first signs of abuse.

Equally important is coordination among the police, prosecutor’s offices, courts, social welfare centers, healthcare institutions, and educational institutions. Only through joint action can effective protection for victims be ensured and the recurrence of violence prevented. Every institution has its own role and responsibility, and the success of the system depends on their cooperation and timely response.

Emergency protection measures that enable the rapid removal of the perpetrator from the shared home and prohibit contact with the victim are of particular importance. Such measures often represent a crucial step in protecting the lives and health of victims. However, their effectiveness depends on consistent implementation and the willingness of all competent authorities to act without delay.

Society must send a clear message that violence is not a private family matter and must not be tolerated under any circumstances. Every report of violence must be taken seriously, and every victim must feel that they are not alone. At the same time, programs of psychological assistance and support should be further developed to help victims return to a normal life and regain a sense of security.

Based on the experience gained through representing numerous injured parties and working on criminal law cases, I am convinced that significant progress can be achieved, but only if the entire community recognizes its responsibility. The fight against domestic violence is not solely the task of institutions. It is a shared obligation of all of us who wish to build a society in which every child grows up without fear and every individual lives with dignity and security.

Mr. Božana Simić

Expert in criminal law and issues concerning the protection and care of minors who have suffered harm as victims of criminal offences. Throughout her professional career, she has participated in a large number of cases involving domestic violence, child protection, victims’ rights, and the provision of legal support to the most vulnerable members of society.