The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has expressed concerns regarding the abuse and harassment faced by women on social media platforms. This issue was prominently featured in the Commission’s Parallel Report submitted to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) on January 6, 2025.
Sri Lanka, as a signatory to the CEDAW Convention, has committed to ensuring the protection of women from all forms of violence, including online harassment. The HRCSL noted that such abuse is a growing concern, particularly for women politicians and those in the public eye. The report emphasized the state’s obligation to uphold equality and non-discrimination principles while addressing this pervasive issue.
The Commission’s observations align with global calls for enhanced measures to combat gender-based violence, especially in digital spaces. As Sri Lanka undergoes a periodic review by the UN Committee, the HRCSL’s input seeks to strengthen national policies and ensure that the voices of affected women are amplified on international platforms.
The HRCSL’s report also underscored the need for comprehensive legal frameworks and public awareness initiatives to tackle online harassment effectively. It urged the government to take decisive action in collaboration with civil society organizations and technology platforms to create safer digital environments for women.