Addressing Domestic Violence Against Women in Sri Lanka: A Review of Evidence-Based Practices

Domestic violence, particularly intimate partner violence (IPV), constitutes a pressing public 0health issue in Sri Lanka, affecting approximately one in three women during their lifetime (World Health Organization, 2021). This review synthesizes evidence-based interventions from global contexts, adapting these practices to the unique socio-cultural dynamics of Sri Lanka. The analysis encompasses literature from 2014 to 2024, categorizing interventions into community-based programs, trauma-informed care, legal advocacy, economic empowerment, and culturally sensitive practices. A notable finding highlights the effectiveness of community-driven initiatives, such as engaging local leaders to challenge patriarchal norms, which have reduced IPV rates by up to 15% in pilot programs (United Nations Population Fund, 2018). The review also identifies systemic barriers, including a 40% gap in accessible support services in rural areas, limited social work resources, and weak legal enforcement (Jayatilleke et al., 2020). Practical recommendations for social work professionals emphasize implementing culturally tailored practices, expanding capacity-building initiatives, enhancing legal advocacy frameworks, and promoting economic empowerment programs to support survivors and prevent IPV. This study offers actionable insights for social workers, policymakers, and community leaders, fostering collaborative efforts to develop comprehensive strategies that mitigate domestic violence and promote survivor well-being in Sri Lanka.