Abuse in the home is a violation of God’s wish for humanity as it can adversely affect an individual’s relationship with God and also creates substantial damage in the family, in the community and in society as a whole.

It is unrealistic and dangerous to expect individuals affected by violence to live under the same roof as the abuser.

We believe that a world without domestic abuse is not just a dream, it is a possibility. Never doubt it – changing attitudes changes lives.

It is God’s intention for all human beings, male, female, child and adult, to enjoy safety, freedom, dignity and fullness of life.

As Faith Communities, it is important to deal with this complex issue by working together in a multi-agency approach, including the education of young people in the formation of healthy and respectful attitudes towards themselves and others.

At the same time the abusers must be held accountable for their actions.

At the centre of any intervention work the safety of those being abused is paramount.

It is essential that all those affected by abuse should have the opportunity to enjoy safety, freedom, dignity and fullness of life.

They also need to be guided towards the help they require to develop into people who will not damage those they love.

Abuse contradicts the sanctity of the marriage, and the abuser betrays the integrity of the marriage vows.

It is clearly evident from the Bahá’í teachings that no husband should subject his wife to abuse of any kind, much less to violence; such a reprehensible action is the antithesis of the relationship of mutual respect and equality enjoined by the Bahá’í Writings