The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Women has launched a new public campaign to raise awareness on the problem of violence against women. 

Buses on Yerevan routess 33  and 36 now display banners bearing the coalition's logo.  The banners advertise Hot Line numbers for  victims of domestic or sexual violence.  Victims of abuse can call in safety and anonymously to receive support, guidance and counseling.   

We are hearing more and more these days in the media about sexual and domestic violence in Armenian society.  This is not a phenomenon specific to Armenia but is recognized to be a global problem that needs to be addressed by governments and the public.  Solving conflicts through threats and violence is punishable by law in other countries and must be the rule in Armenia as well.

The Coalition states that children are mostly affected by witnessing violence in their family. The chances for them to become emotionally affected or becoming abusers themselves are very high. 

Women must not remain silent and society – each of us, neighbors , friends , relatives - must understand the victim and condemn the abuser, the Coalition urges.