Message from UNFPA Representative in Sri Lanka The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Sri Lanka Office is pleased to be part of the joint effort with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka and Professor Savitri Goonesekere to publish this compendium on the application of laws to address cases of reproductive rights and gender-based violence. Although nearly 70 years have passed since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, rights of women and girls are still violated across the world. It is of a particular concern that women and girls are often subjected to violence and their reproductive rights are not fulfilled. As there are a wide range of issues causing this situation, there is a need for a multi-sectoral approach to address both gender-based violence (GBV) and violation of reproductive rights. One of the first important steps should be to rights of women and girls are protected in the national legal system. This compendium aims at providing detailed information and analysis from this perspective. It highlights the linkages between GBV and reproductive health and rights, and identifies gaps in the national legal framework in comparison with what is stipulated in the international human rights treaties. We strongly believe this compendium will serve as a valuable source of information that will influence law, policy, and programming in cases related to GBV and reproductive health and rights. The importance of reproductive rights is often overlooked in law enforcement, reform, and policy formulation although they are fundamental to wellbeing and dignity of women and girls. When women and girls do not enjoy bodily integrity and dignity, their potential cannot be fulfilled. In order for Sri Lanka to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and ensure no one is left behind, addressing issues related to GBV and reproductive health and rights has to be a national priority. As Representative of UNFPA in Sri Lanka, I am proud to be part of Sri Lanka’s journey towards a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive society in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We stand ready to provide continued assistance to the Government of Sri Lanka and all key stakeholders to provide effective technical support and policy advice in advancing the rights of all Sri Lankans. Ms. Ritsu Nacken UNFPA Representative in Sri Lanka III