Women executives call for gender-based-violence law awareness

The Association of Female Executives of Trinidad and Tobago (AFETT) is calling on people to make the effort to better understand gender-based violence legislation in Trinidad and Tobago.

The statement came following a workshop the organisation held for its members on March 10 which featured presentations on existing pieces of GBV legislation and the concept of bail. The workshop was presented by Parliamentary senior legal officer Chantal LaRoche,

In a release, the organisation said La Roche shared details on existing pieces of GBV legislation and pointed to some of the gaps.

“She also spoke to the concept of bail, providing a clear understanding of how the law is interpreted, specific to various circumstances and particularly in relation to GBV. It was made clear that these laws are in place to protect every citizen, to grant everyone the opportunity to be heard in a court of law, and the sacred principle of innocent until proven guilty is enshrined our Constitution.”

AFETT also noted that legislation alone will not be a ‘cure all’ for GBV, as this would require a cultural shift in behaviour and societal norms, a complete review of the system within which these laws are operating, enforcement of those laws, and a careful look at the role of the police in GBV matters.

“While we’ve only been able to merely skim the surface of this topic and are now much better informed about existing GBV legislation in TT, we recognise that much more needs to be done within the existing justice and reform systems and the society, in order for these laws to be effectively implemented. It may also be prudent to consider addressing flaws and non-enforcement of the laws, prior to introducing new pieces of legislation.”

AFETT President Dixie-Ann Dickson said comprehension is key for making decisions.

““We all need to understand the legislation that exists, our current legislative and enforcement systems, and the proposed pieces of legislation, in order to make informed and educated decisions. These forums expose our members and potential members to parts of our legislation that we may not fully understand and helps to make us more aware of our rights and responsibilities as women. We must continue these conversations.”

AFETT said it continues to be at the forefront in promoting the protection of women’s rights, by exposing violence against women, and by promoting and developing a comprehensive, holistic and rights-based approach in the fight against GBV. It said it would be conducting similar sessions for its members to inform and educate them on their rights and responsibilities, and as victims of GBV.

“These discussion forums will help to inform and shape our decision-making as a Non-Governmental Organisation advocating for a better future for our young females in TT.”