Calls for action against Gender-Based Violence
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus on Monday (24) launched its observance of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence 2025, with all Members of Parliament wearing official campaign badges in a gesture that delivered a united message from Parliament to end gender-based violence.
Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj articulated the significance of the 16 Days of Activism by emphasizing that living free from violence and with dignity is a universally recognized human right. “Every individual, regardless of gender, has the right to live without violence. It is our collective responsibility not to harm others,” she said.
The global campaign begins on Tuesday (25) and runs until December 10, coinciding with Human Rights Day. Minister Paulraj announced that a series of awareness and outreach programs will take place islandwide throughout the 16 days, noting that the campaign has been observed internationally since 1991, grounded in the principle that freedom from violence is fundamental to human dignity.
This year’s focus, she said, is on preventing gender-based violence in digital spaces, including online harassment, cyberstalking and other forms of technology-facilitated abuse.
Paulraj also called on Parliament to lead by example. Referring to recent conduct in the House, she emphasized the need for MPs to refrain from hateful rhetoric and violations of personal privacy, even amid political disagreements.
MP Chamindrani Kiriella, addressing the House during the same session, highlighted the scale of the problem in Sri Lanka, noting that one in five women, 20%, experience some form of violence in their lifetime. She emphasized the need for the campaign to translate into concrete actions, including stronger protections and support for survivors of gender-based violence.
Throughout the 16 days, the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus is expected to champion increased public awareness, legislative reforms, and community engagement to drive tangible progress in the fight against gender-based violence.
-ENCL
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