SINCE the passage of the Family Violence Bill No.11 of 2024, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) has embarked on a mission to reshape how Guyanese society understands and addresses domestic abuse.

With an expanded definition of “family violence” and an aggressive awareness campaign, the ministry is reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on abuse within families—whether physical, emotional, psychological, or financial.

At the heart of this legislative reform is a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the many faces of abuse.

According to Legal Officer at the Ministry, Andre Jagnandan, the Family Violence Act identifies a broad range of abusive behaviours: from sexual or physical assault to emotional manipulation, coercive control, threats, and even harming or threatening to harm family pets.

A brief but impactful video presentation posted to the ministry’s Facebook page laid out these definitions, helping to inform the public of their rights and the protections now enshrined in law.

“The Act recognises that abuse is not always visible,” said Jagnandan. “It’s about addressing the full spectrum of harm that can occur within families and ensuring the law offers comprehensive protection.”

The Act also addresses a historically overlooked but critical issue — financial dependency. Many victims remain trapped in abusive relationships due to lack of financial independence. The new legislation acknowledges this and includes measures to ensure support mechanisms are in place for those seeking to leave abusive environments.

But education and outreach haven’t stopped at online posts. In December 2024, the MHSSS rolled out training sessions for prosecutors and members of the Guyana Police Force, equipping them with tools to enforce the legislation effectively. This marked the beginning of what would become a sweeping, multi-pronged campaign aimed at changing the cultural and institutional response to domestic violence.

In early 2025, the ministry’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU) led a national school-based awareness initiative, visiting 25 secondary schools across Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Nine, and 10. In collaboration with the Family Enhancement Services Section (FESS) and the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), the campaign reached 1,704 students—720 boys and 984 girls—giving them insight into the legal framework now in place and how it can protect them and their families.

Recognising the pivotal role of law enforcement in addressing family violence, the ministry has also launched the Police Advanced Training and Readiness for Operational Leverage (P.A.T.R.O.L) initiative. This new programme focuses on improving the police force’s responsiveness to domestic violence cases.

The inaugural P.A.T.R.O.L. training session saw participation from 26 officers (nine women and 17 men) from Division ‘4’A’ of the Guyana Police Force. A second session targeted Region Five, where 18 additional officers were trained at the Fort Wellington Police Headquarters. These workshops emphasised the provisions of the Family Violence Act, the responsibilities of law enforcement and the need for inter-agency collaboration with SO&DVPU and CPA.

The MHSSS’s ongoing initiatives make it clear: Tackling family violence requires more than just legal reform. It demands community education, professional training, and a systemic cultural shift. With the Family Violence Act of 2024 as its cornerstone, the ministry is ensuring that every Guyanese—child, adult, officer, or educator—understands the signs of abuse and the avenues available for protection and justice.

As Guyana continues to evolve its social and legal infrastructure, the message is resounding: family violence will no longer be hidden behind closed doors.