Women Lawyers call for implementation of Domestic Violence Policy

The Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) on Monday joined in the observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by lobbying for the implementation of the 2008 National Policy on Domestic Violence by having the National Domestic Violence Oversight Committee begin functioning.

A release from the GAWL stated that that while efforts of the relevant authorities to implement a more strategic approach to ending violence against women are recognised, it is five years since the policy was launched and the oversight committee is still not in place. This committee is required to submit an annual action plan which should receive tangible budgetary support.

The GAWL said that the policy is comprehensive and if implemented would result in the strengthening of