How does the world deal with intimate partner violence?

Intimate partner violence has been a criminal offense in Japan since the law was enforced in 2001. Following from a questionnaire conducted from 2009 to 2010 by the Japan Federation of Bar Associations, several problems were identified by judges, lawyers, and secretaries. The problems consisted of the extent of violence being underestimated, denial of the level of violence carried out by the perpetrator, the length of time it takes for a restraining or deportation order to be issued against the perpetrators and a lack of understanding of the risks accompanying the abused. From these problems, it is important to find out how the victims are treated in the justice system and how this treatment affects the victims. The support that the victims get from centers and loved ones are necessary especially because it is challenging to enforce a Protection Order because the victim lives while withdrawing from the abuse and rebuilding her life. It is essential that the law is improved for victims who need the support but have fallen through the legal system. A proper safety net needs to be secured for the victims to rehabilitate is achievable with cooperation, collaboration, and utilization of the private sector and local governments. Collaborative efforts are required to establish a facility and programs where the rehabilitation can occur for the victims of intimate partner violence. It is suggested that firstly there needs to be a basic policy influencing gender equality and protective services. Secondly, there needs to be the encouragement of the local communities to promote gender equality to work in preventing gender-based violence. Thirdly, there needs to be the performance of gender equality within Japan to work in preventing intimate partner violence.