Colombo, Sri Lanka - The first South Asia Women’s Network - Sri Lanka Chapter Roundtable was held on 12 December 2025 in Colombo, with the participation of newly appointed network members. The event marked an important milestone in addressing the gender dimensions of trafficking in persons (TIP) and smuggling of migrants (SOM). Members shared their experiences and expertise in key areas critical to tackling issues related to these subjects.
Members of the Network focused on effective and efficient ways to address general systematic barriers and cultural barriers with attached perceptions; constraints in getting adequate financial and other capacity to engage with the investigation process continuously; paying attention to the repercussions of not being able to conclude the process and punish criminals. Members were of the view that one of the efficient ways to address issues in this area is by considering the whole of society approach which is necessary for programming which enable women to come forward. Another most sensitive area that needs attention of policy makers and practitioners is promoting and having survivor-led initiatives.
Although Sri Lanka has a strong legislative and policy framework to address both crimes, several practical challenges continue to hinder effective implementation. These include the lack of disaggregated data, inconsistencies and weaknesses in data analysis, limited technical understanding of TIP and SOM issues, and gaps in perception, particularly in identifying victims and supporting their reintegration into society. Among the most significant gaps is the limited inclusion of women in decision-making processes related to addressing TIP and SOM.
Members strongly believe that the contributions from the roundtable will support the Secretariat in developing a draft Roadmap for Action for 2026. They are confident that the priority areas identified will generate meaningful and productive outcomes for all members of the Network. The members also expressed interest in learning from regional good practices and drawing on comparative jurisdictions to inform updates to national TIP legislation.
Collectively, the members emphasized the need to address the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles, including consideration of measures such as a quota system within law enforcement and immigration authorities. A significant gap also remains in the provision of quality assistance to victims, particularly in responding to the specific needs of female victims, and this should be prioritized.
Overall, the initiative is expected to foster a strong community of practitioners dedicated to advancing women’s leadership, while creating opportunities for female officials and male gender champions to build their capacities and contribute their knowledge and skills toward addressing TIP and SOM issues nationally.
The project is funded by the European Union.
For more information about “Preventing and Addressing Trafficking in Human Beings and the Smuggling of Migrants in South Asia”, please contact:
Martin Reeve (Mr.), Project Coordinator
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