Leyla (name changed) is a 29-year-old woman who has faced domestic violence for many years. She is married to a man who, she says, changed a long time ago. When Leila first married her husband, she was sure she had found her love. Her husband courted her beautifully, gave her expensive gifts, and bought her an apartment – everything seemed perfect. But years later, everything changed. Violence, humiliation, and insults became part of her daily life.
When the husband gets angry, he starts insulting the woman, swearing, and throwing objects at her. However, the worst thing, according to Leyla, is not the physical violence, but the fear she feels. Leyla is afraid to ask for anything, and cannot even talk to him calmly. And if he finds out that she has approached someone or complained, she will not feel well.
In addition, Leila believes that her husband has another woman, which adds even more tension to her already complicated life. She feels more vulnerable as she cannot seek help because of her position as a third wife. Leila married her husband against her parents’ wishes and now she feels her position is even more defenseless.
She contacted the REActors hotline after seeing the number on social media, but despite recognizing that her life was in danger, Leila did not know how to proceed or if the issue could be resolved.
Her decision to seek help is the first step towards liberation. Leila’s case will not be ignored further and the woman will be given the help she asks for.
Also read:
A night meeting that became a nightmare: the story of a victim of violence in Moldova
When the right to safety is a privilege: the story of a trans* woman from Armenia