Violence against women is one of the most widespread and pervasive violations of human rights globally. According to a report by UNFPA, 90% of women and girls in Sri Lanka have faced sexual harassment on public buses and trains, while 1 in 4 women report having experienced physical and/or sexual violence since the age of 15 (Department of Census & Statistics, 2019). Efforts to end violence against women are often hindered by legal gaps, social stigma, and a lack of resources.

The Government of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, the Forum Against Gender-Based Violence, and the United Nations have united in their advocacy for safer public spaces across the country.

On November 25th, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign officially began with an awareness walk in Colombo. The event was attended by over 500 participants, including Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Paulraj, UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche, and representatives from the development sector, UN agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, and the public.

FPA Sri Lanka proudly participated in the walk, which began at Independence Square and concluded at the Colombo Municipal Council. The iconic landmark building was illuminated in orange to symbolize a future free from violence against women and girls.