Empirical evidence on sexual and gender based violence faced by migrant female domestic workers
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Date
2025-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka
Abstract
Female migrant workers experience Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) related
vulnerabilities in the countries of their destination. However, there is limited understanding
and empirical evidence of the extent of SGBV experienced by Sri Lankan female migrant
workers in recent years. Using data from complaints lodged at the Sri Lanka Bureau of
Foreign Employment (SLBFE) by migrant female domestic workers, in an approach
that combines the world of work and human rights frameworks, this study conducts a
qualitative analysis to provide empirical evidence on when, where and how female migrant
workers are affected by SGBV. Empirical evidence provides a better understanding of
various nuances of SGBV and helps formulate appropriate recommendations along four
main pillars which are Pillar 1: Pre-emptive risk identification mechanisms and awareness
raising mechanisms; Pillar 2: Efficient and speedy reporting mechanisms; Pillar 3: Effective
support structures for positive coping mechanisms and Pillar 4: Binding penalty measures
to prevent further incidence of SGBV.