[Lauchenoiria]

Kerlian News Service

International Edition

Councillors comment on suicide rates in Shuell
12th June 2019

Several members of the Council of Kerlile have today commented on the rate of suicides in the Incorporated States of [nation]Shuell[/nation], after new figures were released by the National Shuellian Broadcasting Network on Monday. The suicide rate for men in Shuell is much higher than that for women.

Councillor Electra Georgiou expressed concern about the high rates among men, saying: “it is likely the high suicide rate is a direct result of a culture in Shuell which reinforces traditional patriarchal gender roles. Men are expected, under such a system, to hide their emotions which it has been proven increases the risk of suicide. It is heartbreaking to see that people are dying as a result of this system, and is proof that reform is needed in Shuell, like we seek to do here.”

The sentiment of placing blame on the patriarchy was echoed by Councillor Pauline Pierre, although her view was slightly different: “even men understand how terrible it is to live under the patriarchy. These men who died are the good ones, who felt guilt about their privilege compared to the oppressed women. Shuellians need freedom from misogyny. I am glad to see, however, that despite being oppressed by their patriarchal government, most Shuellian women are strong enough to keep going.”

The issue was also commented on by Councillor Natalia Hart, a devout follower of the Goddess. Suicide is a complex topic in Kerlian religion. Some interpret it as defying the will of the Goddess, and thus is a sin. Others say that the Goddess allows them to take their lives, and so their choice should be respected by humans too. Councillor Hart blamed the issue on Shuell’s lack of faith in the Goddess.

“I am relieved to see that women are unlikely to end their lives in Shuell, and I am pleased that they are taking measures to reduce the suicide rate. However, it is no surprise that many Shuellians are driven to this point – given their lack of faith. Many follow a religion known as Szilankism, however this is no substitute for the faith in the Goddess which gives me and so many Kerlians joy.”

Councillor Rebecca Arnott praised Shuell for attempting to lower the suicide rates, however she believes much more needs to be done. She compared the Shuellian figures with those from Kerlile – which cannot be released in full for security reasons – mentioning that male suicide rates were similar in both nations. She promised that if she is appointed President of Kerlile she will act to try and reduce the male suicide rate in Kerlile, as currently there are no government programs tackling the issue. “The high suicide rates in Shuell are cause for concern, however I am glad to see their government is at least making some effort to reduce them – something we sorely need to do here.”