A growing number of women in Azerbaijan are becoming victims of domestic violence, including murders committed after divorce, experts warn.
They link these tragedies to deep-seated issues such as psychological dependency, jealousy, social pressure, and entrenched cultural tolerance for domestic abuse.
Speaking to İctimai TV, psychologists explained that divorce may legally end a relationship, but emotional ties and controlling behavior often persist.
“When emotions run high, people can lose their sense of reality. Jealousy and fear of losing control sometimes lead to violence – even murder,” one expert noted.
Children, they note, suffer the most severe and lasting trauma, often carrying the emotional scars throughout their lives.
Specialists argue that family psychologists should play a stronger role in communities to mediate conflicts before they escalate into violence.
Legal experts point to Article 133 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code, which provides penalties for domestic violence and allows women to seek protective orders.
In some countries, additional safeguards – such as electronic monitoring bracelets that alert police when abusers approach victims – have proven effective.
Experts emphasize that public engagement and social awareness are crucial for reducing such crimes.
“Ending domestic violence requires not only laws, but a change in attitudes,” one psychologist said.
