Based on these definitions violence against women is primarily the use of physical force against women, as well as actions to oppress or limit a woman’s rights and / or freedom. However, this is a broad definition, including, for example, the deprivation of a work bonus for a mistake. This is why it is important to pay particular attention to the definition of the word “oppression”, which is unjust limitation of freedom.

In this sense, violence should be considered in the context of unjust actions of a person (usually a man) committed against women. It is obvious that the fairness of certain actions is determined by legislative norms, cultural norms, etc. In this sense, violence is different from punishment, which is applied to someone who commits a crime. For instance, in Moslem countries a woman must wear yashmak. If she does not, actions obliging her to follow this traditional duty will be considered by society as punishment, not violence.