As the world celebrated the International Men’s Day on March 18, a local organization, Men in Distress, is sounding the alarm about the domestic violence allegedly suffered by some men in Kayanza province in northern Burundi.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

According to this NGO, more than 199 men have reportedly been traumatized by their wives, and one of them has died from depression.

Domestic violence overlooked

According to Boniface Nduwimana, chairperson of the association, the main factors explaining this situation are land disputes and cohabitation, which create tensions within the home. He states that some women psychologically and physically abuse their husbands, leading some to situations of deep distress.

« There are men who suffer humiliation, verbal and even physical violence from their wives. Some even sink into depression, and we have recorded tragic cases, including one death, » he laments.

A call for the recognition of men’s rights

Faced with this worrying situation, the NGO Men in Distress calls on Burundian authorities to officially establish the International Men’s Day and to implement a specific law protecting men’s rights within the family.

According to Boniface Nduwimana, this recognition could help break the taboo surrounding domestic violence against men and promote balance within families.

« We cannot talk about sustainable development if families are in crisis. Equal rights not only mean protecting women, but also ensuring the dignity of men who are victims of domestic violence, » he emphasizes.

A necessary social debate

The issue of domestic violence against men remains largely unknown and poorly documented. The majority of policies and awareness campaigns focus on violence against women, a major problem in its own right. However, human rights experts believe it is essential to address all forms of domestic violence to build a more just and balanced society.

Will the appeal launched by Men in Distree resonate with the Burundian authorities? In the meantime, the association continues its work supporting victims and advocating for the recognition of the rights of men in distress.

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A man heads towards a bar selling uncontrolled, highly alcoholic drinks in the north of the country, one of the main causes of domestic violence in Burundi, August 2023 ©️ SOS Médias Burundi