Women and children have historically faced higher levels of certain forms of abuse, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect, and other forms of violence. Children are also legally regarded as vulnerable persons because they may not have the maturity, independence, or financial ability to protect their own interests.
For this reason, governments create special institutions and ministries to develop policies, provide support, protect their rights, and respond to problems that affect them.
The purpose is not necessarily to say that men do not need protection or that men cannot suffer abuse. Men can also be victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, neglect, discrimination, and other forms of harm.
The existence of a Ministry of Women Affairs or a ministry responsible for children therefore does not mean that men have no legal rights or protection. The general laws of the country apply to everyone, and a person who suffers abuse or whose rights are violated can seek legal protection regardless of gender.
In simple terms, special government institutions are often created to address the particular problems faced by groups that have historically been more vulnerable or less able to protect themselves.
Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
