China's Top Court Emphasizes Importance of Personal Safety Protection Orders Against Domestic Violence

China's Supreme People's Court (SPC) has underscored the crucial role of personal safety protection orders in combating domestic violence. The court emphasized that individuals who violate these orders will face criminal charges.

This announcement coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The SPC, in collaboration with the All-China Women's Federation, highlighted five significant cases to raise awareness about domestic violence and its consequences.

One case involved a man named Wang, who was sentenced to eight months in prison for disregarding a personal safety protection order issued to protect his ex-wife. Despite the order prohibiting him from assaulting or contacting his ex-wife, Wang continued his abusive behavior, leading to his imprisonment.

The SPC stressed that personal safety protection orders are not mere suggestions but legally binding decisions that must be respected and enforced. Individuals who disregard these orders will face severe penalties, as they are challenging the authority of the law.

The court acknowledged the effectiveness of the personal safety protection order system, established in 2016, in preventing domestic violence. The issuance rate of these orders has steadily increased over the years.

The SPC urged victims of domestic violence to seek help from the police, courts, local village committees, or women's federations. The court also emphasized the importance of raising awareness about domestic violence and taking proactive measures to address this issue, as family harmony is essential for social stability and progress.

The announcement also included four other domestic violence cases, including one where a man was sentenced to death for killing his wife after repeated assaults and disagreements over divorce. These cases serve as stark reminders of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the need for robust measures to protect victims.