In August 2008, China's first court order on protection of personal safety was issued in Wuxi, Jiangsu province. The order prohibited a husband from beating or intimidating his wife. This was the first time a court granted judicial protection for personal safety in a civil case.

But more work has to be done to control the epidemic of domestic violence. Government and community leaders should spearhead a move to create a culture of openness and support to eliminate the stigma associated with domestic violence.

Furthermore, it is necessary not only to enact, but also to enforce legislation to make all forms of violence against women, including marital rape, a crime. Laws should be followed up with plans for specific national action.

The author is an international public health consultant and the author of the Pan American Health Organization publication Violence in the Americas.