China's First Anti-Domestic Violence Law to Be Deliberated This August: NPC Spokesperson

Fu Ying, spokesperson for the 3rd Session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), answers the question about anti-domestic violence law by reporter from China Women's News. [CCTV News]

Fu Ying, spokesperson for the 3rd Session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), has said China's first anti-domestic violence law is likely to be put forward for initial reading in August this year.

Fu revealed the news at a press conference on the 3rd Session of the 12th NPC on March 4, after the reporter from China Women's News, Geng Xingmin, asked what progress had been made on the planned law.

"Domestic violence has risen as a social problem and all modern governments have to face the issue. A draft of the anti-domestic violence law has been published and public opinions are being solicited. If things go smoothly, we expect the law to take shape after two or three readings."

On the other hand, she pointed out, "It is difficult to reach a consensus on where to draw a line since the Chinese society is still relatively conservative."

However, the drafting of a new law on domestic violence has already shown the State's stance on the issue, which is that violence will not be tolerated even among family members, she said.

"I hope that ordinary people play an active role in formulation of this bill. The process of public discussion will enhance awareness for the fight against domestic violence and hopefully the law will promote happiness in families and help create a more civilized society," Fu concluded.

(Source: CCTV News/Translated and edited by Women of China)