UWI’s Gender Studies Dept calls for more targeted, less superficial approach to GBV

UWI’s Institute for Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) is calling for a stronger response to the rates of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Trinidad and Tobago. 

In a statement  IGDS cited recent statistics which show an increase in domestic violence, with 28 murders linked to GBV reported in 2024 and 1,227 cases logged from January to August. Recent incidents resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including a 14-month-old child.

The IGDS emphasises the need for all entities responsible for the safety and support of survivors to treat every case with “due diligence regardless of the case history of the victim or personal beliefs.” The organisation states, “Victims must not be subjected to any form of victim blaming and their well-being is a priority.”

The culture of victim blaming has led to an ineffective approach to addressing GBV, it noting, saying discussions often revert to harmful questions like “Why did she stay?” or “What could she have done?” The IGDS highlights that “despite all efforts to curb this issue through legislation and sensitisation training, there seems to be a continued superficial approach to addressing GBV.”

It notes children are often collateral damage in these incidents, underscoring the need for a comprehensive response. The IGDS argues that GBV should be viewed as “not simply a security issue, but it is also a health issue, a social protection issue, and a multi-sectoral issue.” The impact on survivors and their families must be addressed, necessitating the integration of sensitive protocols within mental health policies.

To combat this crisis, the IGDS urges the government to allocate part of the recent 6.912 billion budget to develop a GBV sensitisation programme which should  involve various ministries and agencies to ensure a uniform response to GBV cases.

Moreover, the IGDS insists on the need for stronger mechanisms around Protection Orders, noting that “considering the number of women that have been killed had protection orders,” this issue requires immediate attention. The organisation also calls on media personnel to be mindful of the language used in reporting, stating, “consideration must be given to survivors/victims and their families.”

The IGDS references the National Strategic Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence launched earlier this year, reiterating the need for gender-responsive services and a coordinated multi-stakeholder strategy. The five elements of the Five P’s Model—Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, Punishments/Penalties, and Provision of redress—must be implemented, with emphasis on the protection and support of survivors.

T environment for all individuals affected by violence. Together, we can work towards a future where gender-based violence is addressed with the urgency it deserves.

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