Shining a Light: The Power of Support Services for Women Survivors of Violence in Palestine

is alarming at around 59 percent[1]. According to the United Nations, this includes intimidation, threats of physical harm, property destruction, and forced isolation from friends, family, school, and work. In the Occupied Palestinian Territories, especially during the ongoing war, the trauma of violence is compounded and the need for support services is more critical than ever. While support services exist, over half of the women subjected to violence opt to stay silent, whether out of fear of repercussions, disbelief, or a desire to protect others, leading them to suffer in silence.

Twenty-seven-year-old Zeina’s story is a testament to the transformative power of these services in the lives of survivors of violence. Enduring years of psychological and physical violence from her husband, parents, and brothers, she sought help by filing a complaint with the Family Protection and Juvenile Unit (FPU) of the Palestinian Civil Police. This action served as an entry point to a network of support services, encompassing healthcare, social services, policing, and justice services, provided in compliance with the National Referral System, that would ultimately change Zeina's life forever.

Zeina was referenced to the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) and met with a woman protection counselor there, who recommended she meet with the public prosecution, who confirmed the harm inflicted on her mental well being and her children due to the abuse she endured. Subsequently, she was assessed by Dr. Samah Jaber, Director of Psychological Health Services at the Ministry of Health. Under her guidance and care, Zeina began the process of healing and empowerment. Dr. Samah says that cases such as Zeina’s often escalate which is why help is so vital. “There is a huge need for psychological health,” explains Dr. Jaber, “If they are survivors of violence, especially if they are mothers of little children, this also has a great impact on the health of their children.”

“At first, I didn’t trust that these people could solve my problems or help me,” says Zeina. “It was a very difficult experience at first. I refused treatment because I was scared they would take custody of my children and didn’t think the treatment could help.” Despite her initial skepticism, Zeina's trust in Dr. Jaber and her commitment to her well-being grew over time.  “After the first and second meetings, things got better, and I felt safer and more comfortable and wanted to continue treatment.” Supported by a dedicated care team, Zeina received individual counseling, medication, and legal assistance tailored to her needs.

The road to recovery was not without its challenges, and Zeina continued to face threats to her safety from her abusers. In response, Zeina and her children were transferred to a confidential shelter, where they received continued support from Dr. Jaber, social workers, and legal counselors.

With the assistance of her care team, Zeina assumed custody of her children, obtained a divorce from her husband, and pursued her dream of a university degree. The team’s ongoing support, including regular check-ins and counseling sessions, helped her rebuild her life and repair relationships with some of her family.  

Through the collaborative efforts of the Palestinian government, and UNODC, UNFPA, and UN Women, through the HAYA Joint Programme, women like Zeina have been empowered to break free from the cycle of violence and reclaim their dignity and rights. UNODC with its partners, through HAYA, plays a crucial role in supporting service providers to effectively respond to survivors of violence. This includes offering guidance on handling cases of psychological trauma and ensuring survivors receive comprehensive support. By closely collaborating with service providers, UNODC strengthens the response to gender-based violence and works towards improving outcomes for survivors.

“Through our national partners, HAYA is dedicated to empowering and supporting women survivors of violence by offering a comprehensive range of essential services, including psychosocial support,” says HAYA Joint Programme Manager Hazam Tahbub. “As a team, we strive to ensure that no survivor is left behind, encouraging them to promptly access the support necessary to heal and thrive.”

With its partners and through HAYA, thus far, UNFPA has successfully increased awareness among thousands of women about available services supporting survivors of violence. These services include protection, legal aid, healthcare, and psychosocial support delivered through awareness-raising initiatives, empowerment outreach programs, and survivors sharing their success stories. Working with its partners, UN Women, through HAYA, prioritizes the well-being of women in Palestine by providing individual and group psychosocial support. These services are delivered through mobile clinics and other venues, including sheltering services, where women's needs are carefully assessed and addressed to enhance the overall resilience and empowerment.

Investing in comprehensive support services tailored to the unique needs of survivors can empower them to break free from cycles of violence. Zeina believes that many survivors of violence avoid seeking help due to fears of social stigma and lack of justice but says that it can help change their lives. “Thanks to everyone who helped me,” says Zeina. “I am doing well now and focused on completing my university studies.” Zeina’s story, along with those of others like her, is a testament to the transformative impact of psychosocial support in helping survivors regain agency, rebuild their lives, and envision a brighter future.

[1] Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) Violence Survey, 2019

*Zeina is an alias used to maintain privacy and confidentiality.

Funded by the Government of Canada and jointly implemented by UN Women, UNFPA, UN-Habitat, and UNODC, the HAYA Joint Programme seeks to eliminate violence against women and girls through various outreach and awareness-raising activities, to increase access to necessary services for survivors of violence, as well as to strengthen the institutional capacity of government officials to develop and implement legal and policy frameworks promoting and protecting women’s and girls’ rights to live free from violence.