RANKS from the Guyana Police Force and several prosecutors recently participated in a comprehensive training session on the Family Violence Act, conducted by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS). This Act, passed in August 2024, replaces the 1996 Domestic Violence Act, introducing robust measures to combat family violence and enhance support for victims.
During the session, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, emphasised the critical role of law enforcement in implementing the new legislation. She highlighted key provisions of the Act, including the requirement for police to charge perpetrators when visible signs of abuse are observed.

“The law now provides that officers can enter a home without a warrant if necessary to address ongoing violence,” Minister Persaud explained. She added that reports of family violence must be acted upon promptly, with a 48-hour timeframe for senior officers to decide on charges.
The Minister warned that the Act enforces serious consequences for both perpetrators and officers who fail to uphold its provisions. She urged attendees to familiarise themselves with the law in its entirety to ensure accurate application and enforcement.
A significant aspect of the Act is its inclusion of civil remedies. For the first time, perpetrators are required to compensate victims for property damage and other related harm. “If someone is found guilty of causing harm, they can also be required to vacate the premises while continuing to pay rent,” the Minister stated.

Minister Persaud encouraged officers to guide victims toward government programmes designed to foster independence, such as the Women Investment and Innovation Network (WIIN) and initiatives under the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).
She also highlighted existing support services, including the Hope and Justice Centres, the survivors advocate programme, and the legal pro bono initiative, which handles 500 cases annually.
Officers trained under the Cop Squad initiative were reminded of their enhanced responsibilities. Dr. Persaud stressed the importance of having at least one Cop Squad-trained officer in every police station or outpost to provide dedicated support to survivors.
“In these 16 Days of Activism, make a commitment to support those who show the courage to report abuse,” she urged.

Starting January 2025, countrywide training sessions on the Family Violence Act and related laws, including the Sexual Offenses Law and Protection Against Harassment Law, will be conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Legal Affairs.
The Minister also encouraged participants to deepen their knowledge of the Countering-Trafficking in Persons (C-TIP) and the Child Protection Act of 2009.
For more information about the Family Violence Act of 2024, visit the Parliament of Guyana website or the Official Gazette.
This training marks a significant step in equipping law enforcement with the tools and knowledge necessary to address family violence effectively, ensuring justice and support for victims across Guyana.