“Drama and Women’s Voices”: Conference Discusses the Multiple Dimensions of Violence Against Women

Al-Jisr – Exclusive

“Drama and Women’s Voices”: Conference Discusses the Multiple Dimensions of Violence Against Women

Yesterday, Wednesday, December 10, the Egyptian Center for Women’s Issues held a conference titled: “Drama and Women’s Voices: Outcomes of the 16-Day Campaign Toward a Unified Law to Protect Women from Violence.”

First Session: Drama as a Tool for Awareness

The conference began with remarks from Siham Ali, Executive Director of the Center, who discussed the TV series “Four Walls”, produced by the Center as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. She highlighted how the series realistically and powerfully portrayed various forms of violence against girls and women in society, while also delivering important awareness messages.

The first session was moderated by Noura Mohamed, Director of the Anti-Violence Program at the Center, who emphasized that art carries a message and a responsibility, and that it plays a key role in shaping societal awareness. She noted that the series’ team clearly embodied this responsibility, working voluntarily over eight months to bring the project to life.

Participants in the first session included:

• Ahmed Haddad, director and filmmaker of the series

• Basma Yasser, one of the actresses in the series

• Sherif El-Wasimi, composer of the series’ soundtrack

The session concluded with several recommendations, highlighting the importance of using drama as a tool for social change, conveying a clear message that contributes to reducing societal issues, particularly domestic violence, which has become a widespread phenomenon. Recommendations stressed the need to reveal truths without exaggeration or embellishment, while also working on social interventions that create safer spaces and support legal protection for women and girls.

Second Session: Legal, Psychological, and Religious Dimensions

The second session explored the legal and psychological aspects of violence, as well as the influence of religious discourse on domestic violence. It was moderated by Dr. Yousry Mostafa, member of the Board of Trustees of the Egyptian Center for Women’s Issues.

Dr. Olfat Allam, consultant in psychotherapy and addiction, emphasized that women exposed to violence require urgent services and immediate support, and that it is crucial to identify partner organizations capable of providing real assistance. She also stressed the need for awareness among service providers—including doctors, specialists, and relevant authorities—to ensure safe and effective interventions.

Abdel Fattah Yehia, a lawyer at the Court of Cassation, explained that the main legislative challenge is the lack of a clear legal philosophy to combat violence against women. While there are laws addressing crimes such as harassment and extortion, the legal framework still lacks effective mechanisms to protect witnesses and reporters.

The conference concluded with recommendations compiled by Dr. Yousry Mostafa and participants, emphasizing:

• The importance of community awareness campaigns

• The need for legislative reform

• Effective law enforcement mechanisms, including protection for survivors and reporters of violence-related crimes