Domestic violence poses a significant threat to the well-being and safety of individuals, families, and communities, and has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole. Our laws exist to protect you as much as the next person. It should never be difficult to get a restraining order or protection order if you have reason to fear for your life or well being.

2018 Domestic Violence Survey In Botswana.

Domestic violence is a significant problem in Botswana, with high rates of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse against women and children. According to a 2018 survey conducted by the Botswana Police Service, 4,534 cases of domestic violence were reported in that year, with the majority of the victims being women.

Factors Influencing Domestic Violence

The prevalence of domestic violence in Botswana is influenced by a variety of factors, including gender inequality, cultural norms that condone violence against women, poverty, alcohol abuse, and lack of access to education and healthcare. Women who are financially dependent on their partners are often at higher risk of experiencing domestic violence.

Legal Steps Taken To Address Domestic Violence

The Botswana government has taken steps to address domestic violence, including passing the Domestic Violence Act in 2008, which criminalizes physical, sexual, and emotional abuse within intimate relationships. The government has also established shelters and counseling services for survivors of domestic violence.

Challenges

However, there are still challenges to effectively addressing domestic violence in Botswana, including lack of resources and awareness, reluctance to report incidents of abuse due to fear of stigma or reprisal, and limited access to legal and medical services in rural areas. Ongoing efforts are needed to raise awareness about domestic violence, promote gender equality, and provide support to survivors.

Any person in a domestic relationship can obtain a restraining order.

A domestic relationship is created between:

• married couple
• cohabiting couple
• exes
• children & parents
• family members
• house – mates / neighbors
• fiancés

The law allows you to get a restraining order against:

• physical abuse or threat of physical abuse
• sexual abuse or threat of physical abuse
• emotional verbal or psychological abuse
• economic abuse
• intimidation
• harassment
• damage to property
• entry into someone’s home without permission
• stalking

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