Preventing Acts of Violence
Gender-based violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, from young children to the elderly. Anyone can experience such violence, and it is not their fault. When discussing violence, it is essential to avoid blaming the victim. Crimes occur because the perpetrator commits them, not because of how the victim dresses, speaks, or behaves.
Any harmful act committed against an individual or group based on their sexuality, gender identity, social gender roles, or sexual orientation is identified as gender-based violence (GBV). This includes physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse, as well as coercion and deprivation. These acts can occur in public or private spaces and may also take place through digital platforms.
Gender-based violence encompasses various forms such as:
* Intimate Partner Violence
* Sexual harassment
* Human trafficking
* Child marriage
* Gender-based killings (femicide)
It also includes:
Digital violence, such as harassment and cyber theft
Acts like neglect, stalking, abuse, and exploitation of children and elders
Any behavior that suppresses or undermines a person’s sexual identity is classified as gender based violence.
Who are the typical perpetrators of gender-based violence?
All forms of violence stem from an imbalance of power. Perpetrators are often individuals who hold more power over the victim.
Common perpetrators of gender-based violence include:
Intimate partners
Family members
Caregivers
Community members
These violent acts can occur in various settings, such as workplaces, schools, religious institutions, and increasingly within online environments.
Sri Lanka has a legal framework designed to prevent gender-based violence.
To protect the bodily integrity of women (and children), the Penal Code was strengthened through amendments in 1995 and 1998. Additionally, the law allows for the prosecution of any individual who engages in sexual activity without consent.
Furthermore, crimes such as human trafficking, prostitution, sexual exploitation, child sexual abuse, sexual harassment in workplaces, and sexual harassment in public places are recognized as offenses under Sri Lankan law.
In 2015, laws were introduced to enhance the protection of victims and witnesses, thereby increasing the safety and support available to victims.
The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 2005 enables individuals experiencing violence to obtain protection orders or interim protection orders. Free legal advice and assistance can be accessed through the Legal Aid Commission of Sri Lanka (+94 115 335 329 / +94 115 335 281).
If you face any form of violence, you can contact the 1938 hotline or visit the Children and Women’s Bureau at your nearest police station to file a complaint.
Talk to a trusted adult about your experiences. If you require counseling or mental health support, you can contact the National Mental Health Support Service (1926) or the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka (0112555455) for guidance and assistance.
Tests for sexually transmitted diseases and access to emergency contraceptives are available free of charge through government hospitals.
Challenge yourself and your friends to test your knowledge, take the quiz
Access to these contraceptives is made easy through public hospitals and health centers where they are provided for free. Families can talk to doctors and nurses to learn about.
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