Why Accessing Justice is challenging for Victims of Sexual and Gender Based Violence?

In: http://hdl.handle.net/11540/14290

Open Access

Abstract

Violence against women is widespread in Sri Lanka. The grave and brutal nature and the extent of harm and trauma caused to women by such violence in the recent past is alarming. An examination of the reported incidents of sexual and gender-based violence against women reveal that sexual harassment, rape, cyber violence and domestic violence are on the increase within the family unit and in the community at large. Violence against women or the threat of violence, are means of maintaining and re-enforcing women's subordination. Prevailing patriarchal norms, gender stereotypes and individual negative attitudes influence and re-enforce gender-based violence. Unequal power relations, a lack of awareness, insensitivities and negative attitudinal perceptions of law enforcement authorities are the main contributors to the present status quo. These factors prevent many victims from reporting such violence or even seeking medical, psycho-social or legal assistance.