One third of Azeri women tortured by their partners
By United Nations Sexual and Reproductive Health Agency
Research shows that more than one third of women in Azerbaijan have been subjected to some form of violence by their partner, but few feel able to leave, seek help, or report the crime to the police.
Aynur, a 24-year-old in Azerbaijan, recalled the beginning of her relationship with Rauf as “blissful.”
But after they married and moved in together, his behavior quickly became controlling and coercive. When she tried to voice her concerns, he locked her in a room for days on end without food.
“The saying ‘hope dies last’ was my guiding principle,” said Aynur. When she became pregnant, she hoped he would calm down. “Despite my optimism that the birth of our daughter would lead to positive changes, nothing improved. In fact, my parents-in-law soon began to blame me for my husband’s behavior.”
Unable to endure any more, Aynur made several unsuccessful attempts to leave. Finally, she came across a three-digit helpline supported by UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, offering online, confidential psychological support for women and girls affected by violence against women.
Aynur feared losing custody of her child if she pursued divorce, and said she doubted her ability to take care of her daughter alone. But when she called the helpline, she found the answers to her questions. After eight psychotherapy sessions provided by the helpline staff, she summoned enough confidence to leave.
“Through the sessions, Aynur gained an opportunity to self-reflect, remember her professional life before marriage, boost her self-confidence, and eventually realize her own capabilities,” said Aynur, a psychologist who provides consultation services through the UNFPA-supported helpline.
Since the helpline’s launch, the team has handled over 1,100 calls, with 44 leading to in-person consultations. The majority of these calls have come from women and girls, especially those from marginalized communities. “Survivors of violence often have little to no belief in their own abilities and struggle to see beyond their immediate circumstances,” said Aynur.
In addition to psychological support, the helpline also provides referrals for health care, shelter, and legal advice to women who desperately need it.
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow,” Aynur said. “There is so much I have learned from my past – now I live for my daughter and myself.”