The House of the Peoplement of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina unanimously adopted the Law on Domestic Violence and Violence against Women, which increased more severe measures for the protection of victims and stricter sanctions for perpetrators.
One of the key novelty in the law is electronic oversight for violators, which enables the prohibitions imposed, which enables the police to monitor their movement and react quickly in the event of violations. Also, urgent protective measures have been introduced which competent police authorities can apply immediately.
The House of Representatives of the Federation of BiH approved by the law of BiH 4. February, also unanimously.
Strengthens the protection of victims and stricter penalties with a new law, the establishment of a free SOS telephone line available 24 hours a day, so that victims of violence could receive advice and support, while preserving anonymity. The line will provide the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, with the technical support of the Ministry of Transport and Communications.
The law is clearly defined, which is all falling under violence, including physical, mental and economic abuse, as well as the procedures undertaken in the case of violence. The victims envisions are entitled to free medical and psychological assistance, as well as the support of persons from trust.
Special attention is paid to the risk assessment for victims, especially in cases where there is a danger of deadly outcome or re-violence. Factors are taken into account, such as possessing firearms, earlier violent deeds, threats by murder, or suicide, the mental health of the perpetrator and alcohol or drug abuse.
Also, the law provides for urgent protection measures, such as ban on the return of the bully to the joint home, prohibitions of access and communication with the victim, especially in cases when it comes to children. The police are obliged to immediately order protective measures and inform the prosecution, and they can last up to 48 hours.
Penalties are significantly tightened – now the violation of protective measures may result in imprisonment to three years, with the purchase of fine payments are not possible, writes Clix.
