Protest and Dialogue Against All Forms of Violence Against Women – March 19, 2025

Under the powerful theme:
“We Will Not Be Silent!
Let Us Unite!
Let Us Resist!”
women’s networks, including Lakbima Mothers and Daughters Organization and Women’s Centres from across the island, came together in solidarity to protest all forms of violence and abuse against women.
The protest was held on March 19, 2025, demanding justice, accountability, and stronger implementation of the law to:
Hold perpetrators accountable
Ensure justice for victims
Enforce existing legal protections for women

Special Dialogue with Government Officials
Following the protest, a group of organizations was invited to a formal discussion with the Secretary of the Women and Children’s Affairs Bureau and her team. During this session:
A formal statement of demands was handed over
Dialogue was held on how to implement reforms and strengthen legal protections

Key Demands Discussed
Implementation of CEDAW Recommendations (UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women)
Ratification of ILO Convention C190, to protect women from all forms of violence in the workplace
Raising public awareness of the Domestic Violence Act

Organized by
Lakbima Mothers and Daughters Organization
Women’s Centres and Networks Islandwide
Supported by Janawaboda Kendraya

Focus Areas
Ending gender-based violence
Legal justice and accountability
Women’s rights advocacy
Policy dialogue and reform