THERE ARE SOME FAMILIES IN WHICH FAITH IS PRACTICED BUT ARE NONETHELESS EXPERIENCING A SERIOUS VIOLENCE

Interview with Muberom Hodžić-Lemeš

Abstract

UDK 305-055.2:343.6(047.53)

Analysis and statistics show that domestic violence is a rising problem in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Domestic violence is defined as a crime. However, the actual implementation of this law, detecting the cases within the family as well as the readiness of family members to report the crime, are rising issues. Domestic violence is not restricted to physical violence alone. Tolerating other forms of violence, like psychological, verbal or economic violence, commonly lead to it. Furthermore, the practice of Safe House in Sarajevo shows that faith is not necessarily a factor in preventing domestic violence. Individuals interpret faith in accordance to their own understanding and often manipulate with faith in order to justify violent behaviour in family. In this context it is essential to consider the prospects religious communities in rising the awareness regarding this issue. These are the topic we discussed with Mubera Hodžić-Lemeš who made the problem of domestic violence a subject of her scientific endeavour for many years and is involved in the work with victims as a manager of the Safe House in Sarajevo.