The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has noted an increase in complaints over domestic violence and not receiving single parent allowances, the commission said in a statement released on the occasion of international women’s day.

The statement claims that social protection and health organizations as well as the judiciary have not been ‘sensitive’ enough to violence and loss of rights that women suffer, however the commission had not provided any statistical detail.

Further, the HRCM called on relevant authorities and the public to uphold policies and strive to defend the rights of women.

In line with its 2015 annual report, prepared by former members of the commission, Wednesday’s statement also said that women’s participation in public and corporate positions have been low.

The 2015 report, the last annual account compiled by the commission, states that there are rampant inconsistencies in attitude and insensitivity towards domestic violence amongst the judiciary and law enforcement. Moreover, it also highlighted how the Family Protection Agency is limited in its capacity to thwart violence against women and severe lack of avenues for victims to be rehabilitated or treated.

“Increase in religious conservatism, cultural norms and stereotypical roles depicted by society inhibit women’s equitable participation in public life and women remain under represented in all branches of the state and efforts to secure legislative quotas remain unsuccessful” the statement further read.

National Bureau of Statistics, operated under the Finance Ministry, said in its annual report for 2016 that the allowance for single parents decreased 11 percent when compared to 2014.