Women in this country have had to win their rights and forge ahead by facing numerous hardships, Primary Health Care, Epidemics and COVID-19 Disease Control State Minister Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle said in Parliament yesterday.
“Although women have contributed in numerous ways towards the country’s progress, they are still not included in decision making,” she said.
“From winning independence in 1948 to date, only 5 per cent of women representation is in Parliament. Every government has failed to take steps to increase female representation in Parliament. Today women face numerous abuses. Despite women excelling in education, only 35 per cent of women are in executive positions,” the State Minister said.
State Minister Fernandopulle said that women have to face numerous challenges and according to a UN study, 90 per cent of women face some form of harassment when they use public transport. “When women have to face such harassment while using public transport to get to work, how can they concentrate on their work and give it their best? Then in some instances, they have to face harassment at their work places. That is why the ILO Violence and Harassment Convention (No. 190) is so important as it will give women the right to a world of work free from violence and harassment. It has been articulated in an international treaty,” she said.
State Minister Fernandopulle expressed regret that only a minor percentage of women could rise up the ranks. “If women have the qualifications, ability, experience and seniority, I ask why are they not allowed to be promoted to higher ranks? Therefore, it is high time that opportunities are presented on their qualifications and abilities rather than on their gender. It is saddening to note that today women are portrayed as commercial objects. Certain media portray women as sexual objects. Women face numerous abuses on social media. Threfore, it is high time that strict laws are implemented against such perpetrators,” she said.
State Minister Fernandopulle thanked the Prime Minister for his assistance in launching the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus, where women throughout the country, irrespective of their social standing, race or religion, could seek assistance if they are faced with any discrimination or harassment.