Introduction

 

When Mr. Wolfensohn provided World Bank Family Network (WBFN) with the grant to study the problem of domestic abuse, one of the provisions was that they should “inform family members of staff of their individual rights.” Part of the educational effort was a series of articles, written by the then WBFN President Barry McIsaacs, and originally published in the monthly WBFN newsletter Mosaic. Recently, the WBFN Spouse Issues Committee revised and updated these articles in an effort to educate the larger WBG community; they are now available online.

 

If you or someone you know is being threatened, help is available. Every one of the local jurisdictions, in Maryland, DC and Virginia, has a special unit designed to help victims of abuse. The staff of these units are specially trained to explain the law to you in a way you can understand, and to tell you what choices you can make to get protection and help for yourself and your children.Remember - abuse is wrong. No one is obliged to remain in an abusive situation. If you need help yourself, or you know someone who needs help, please call Dr. Helene King at the Family Consultation Service (202-628-5104) or the WBFN office (202-473-8751).