Every year, November 25 is observed as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This day is not just a symbolic gesture—it is a global call to action, urging individuals, governments, and communities to stand up against all forms of violence faced by women and girls.
Violence against women is not limited to physical abuse. It includes psychological, sexual, emotional, and economic violence. These acts can happen in homes, schools, workplaces, and even in public spaces. Sadly, in Sri Lanka, as in many other countries, gender-based violence (GBV) continues to be a serious and widespread issue, often hidden behind cultural silence and social stigma.
A Global Crisis with Local Roots
According to the United Nations, 1 in 3 women globally has experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In Sri Lanka, surveys show alarming levels of violence too. A study by the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs found that 1 in 5 women had experienced intimate partner violence. However, many more cases go unreported due to fear, shame, or lack of trust in the justice system.
Domestic violence, child marriages, sexual harassment in public transport, and workplace discrimination are just a few of the many forms of violence that Sri Lankan women face regularly. The issue is deeply rooted in patriarchal attitudes, where men are seen as dominant and women are expected to be submissive.
The Role of Culture and Society
Cultural expectations often pressure women to remain silent. In many households, violence is seen as a “private matter.” Girls are taught to tolerate abusive behavior to protect the family's honor. Victims are often blamed rather than supported. This silence allows the cycle of abuse to continue from one generation to the next.
Even in cases of rape or sexual assault, victims face stigma, while perpetrators often walk free. Fear of social rejection, lack of legal support, and slow court procedures prevent many women from seeking justice.
The Power of Education and Awareness
One powerful way to fight violence against women is through education. Schools and universities must teach both boys and girls about gender equality, respect, and consent. Boys should be raised in environments that reject violence and promote emotional expression and empathy.
Media also plays a crucial role. TV shows, films, and social media can either reinforce harmful gender roles or challenge them. In Sri Lanka, efforts are being made to change narratives and highlight women’s voices through art, journalism, and activism.
Government Action and Legal Support in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has laws such as the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (2005), and the Penal Code Amendment (1995) which criminalizes sexual harassment. However, implementation is weak. Many police officers are not trained to handle GBV cases sensitively, and victims often face secondary trauma at police stations or hospitals.
More needs to be done to provide safe shelters, hotlines, counselling, and free legal aid for survivors. Community-based support systems—especially in rural areas—are essential.
Hope and Change
Despite the challenges, many Sri Lankan women and organizations are working tirelessly to break the silence. Activists, NGOs like Women In Need (WIN), and survivors themselves are leading awareness campaigns, support networks, and legal reform movements.
The “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence”, which begins on November 25 and ends on December 10 (Human Rights Day), is a global campaign that is now widely observed in Sri Lanka too. Schools, universities, and workplaces conduct events, discussions, and marches to show solidarity and demand change.
What Can You/we Do?
- Listen to survivors without judgment.
- Speak out against sexist jokes, harassment, and violence.
- Support local women's shelters and organizations.
- Educate yourself and others about consent and gender rights.
- Demand better laws and stronger enforcement from the government.
In the essence, i would like to day that Violence against women is not a “women’s issue” — it is a human rights issue. It affects families, communities, and the progress of an entire nation. Let this November 25 not just be a day of remembrance, but a day of action. Every voice counts, and together, we can build a Sri Lanka where women live with dignity, safety, and freedom.
