Sulakshana de Mel

Social and Cultural Anthropologist & Gender Activist

Sri Lanka is facing one of its worst economic crises since its independence in 1948. If we are to emerge triumphant as a phoenix nation rising from its ashes, we need the equal contribution of both women and men in this herculean task. We can no longer overlook the urgent need for equal contribution of women who consist of 52% percent of Sri Lanka’s population. Creating an enabling environment where both women and men could be equal partners is fundamental. A key obstacle that prevents equal participation and contribution of women is the prevalence of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) at all levels in our society, that is not spoken loud or acknowledged in public due to social stigma.

Although Sri Lanka has historically exhibited higher gender equality and related human development indicators, the recent years have witnessed a concerning deterioration in these indicators, raising questions about the nation’s commitment to gender equality. Regardless of geographic location, women continue to face disparities in income, bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid housework and childcare, and remain underrepresented in leadership and decision-making positions across public and private sectors. Men predominantly shape laws, lead governments, and manage major corporations. Sri Lanka records a low female labour force participation of 33% that does not reflect the educational achievements that women have gained over the years.

Despite policy advancements, sexual and genderbased violence (SGBV) remains pervasive in Sri Lanka, affecting families, workplaces, and communities. Rooted in deepseated social norms, economic disparities, and poverty, GBV is a pressing issue. Disturbingly, one in five women in Sri Lanka has experienced sexual and/or physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime, and one in four have experienced such violence since the age of 15.

If women are to reach their full potential and contribute to the development concerns of the country, boys and men too need to play a pivotal role in advocating for change, acknowledging SGBV suffered by women while challenging social stigma that surrounds SGBV. They need to assume their responsibility as not only being part of the problem but also as equal contenders in seeking solutions that will contribute towards creating enabling environments for women and girls to reach their full potential.