THE Government of Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to combatting domestic violence and harassment with a series of new initiatives and legislative actions.
The Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year Report has revealed that in the first half of 2024, the government has implemented various programmes, enacted key legislation, and provided support services to thousands of victims and survivors nationwide as part of its comprehensive strategy to combat sexual and gender-based violence.

In July 2024, the Family Violence Bill was passed in the National Assembly, marking a significant legislative milestone in the fight against domestic abuse.
This Bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding domestic violence and enhance protections for victims, including children and ensure offenders are held accountable. At the same time, consultations are ongoing regarding the Harassment Bill, which is expected to address issues of workplace harassment and other forms of intimidation faced by citizens in their daily lives.

One of the key interventions on the ground is the launch of the first Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Mobile Unit, which opened in Region One in June 2024. The mobile unit is strategically located in Mabaruma and serves surrounding areas, providing survivors of gender-based violence with essential services and immediate support. This includes medical, psychological, and legal assistance, making help more accessible for victims in remote regions.
The opening of the GBV Mobile Unit is part of a broader initiative to decentralise services for survivors of domestic violence, ensuring that help is available even in underserved areas. By bringing essential services directly to vulnerable communities, the government hopes to reduce barriers to access and provide timely interventions for victims.

In addition to the mobile unit, the government has expanded its network of Hope and Justice Centres, with the first launched in Lusignan, Region Four, in April 2024. These centres are designed to provide integrated, survivor-centered services in a safe and supportive environment. They cater to both adults and children who are victims of sexual and gender-based violence, offering services such as counseling, medical care, and legal aid.
Another Hope and Justice Centre is set to open in Region Three later this year, further expanding the reach of these critical services.

Public education and training have also been at the forefront of the government’s efforts. In the first half of 2024 alone, 3,553 individuals across all regions (except for Region Eight, which will be completed by year-end) were trained and sensitised on the prevention of sexual offences and domestic violence.

These training programmes are designed to raise awareness, empower individuals with knowledge, and equip them to recognize and address issues of domestic violence in their communities. The government has also ramped up direct support to victims.
During the first six months of 2024, 40 individuals were provided with shelter services, while 1,307 persons accessed free legal aid services.

These services are crucial for survivors who may lack the resources to seek justice or escape abusive situations. By offering free legal representation and safe housing, the government is helping survivors rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
The Stop Abuse, Feel Empowered (SAFE) initiative, introduced earlier this year, has also provided tangible assistance to survivors. Under this programme, 115 survivors of gender-based violence will receive one-off food vouchers valued at $15,000 each.

This initiative is a collaboration between the Massy Group and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. This financial aid helps alleviate some of the immediate burdens faced by survivors, offering them a lifeline as they work to regain their independence.
Moreover, the government has progressed on its prioritised interventions for the empowerment of women and men. With respect to skills training, 510 women benefited from skills training through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) to improve their readiness for employment opportunities.

In addition, the WIIN business incubator provided 103 women with mentoring and coaching services, and entrepreneurship support. In the second half of the year, through the WIIN programme, 2,370 women are expected to commence skills training, 3,000 women to benefit from the business clinics and 1,161 to receive business startup kits.

Also, four women living with disabilities benefitted from financing for small business loans and seven women benefitted from the Loans Guarantee Programme, in the first half of 2024.