WCIC hosts Workshop on ILO C190, strengthening action against workplace violence and harassment

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) has been actively working to create workplace environments free from Gender-Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH), enabling women to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

With this key objective, WCIC hosted an interactive workshop titled “What’s Next for Sri Lanka with the Ratification of C190”, conducted by Shyamali Ranaraja, a specialist on ILO C190, in the presence of Joni Simpson, ILO Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

The audience comprised representatives from the private and public sectors, NGOs, CSOs, activists, and organisations committed to the subject.

Addressing the gathering, Joni Simpson stated, “It is encouraging to see the efforts of organisations such as WCIC, which are advocating for the standards required to drive meaningful change for the benefit of the country.

“The ratification would strengthen social justice, improve enforcement mechanisms, and promote proactive prevention of all forms of work-related violence and harassment, particularly for marginalised groups.

“By ratifying C190, Sri Lanka will send a clear message both nationally and internationally that workplace violence and harassment are unacceptable, setting a benchmark for dignity, equality, and ethical business practices across all sectors.”

Delivering the welcome address, Gayani de Alwis said, “It is heartening to see such strong participation despite the prevailing situation in the country. This clearly reflects the commitment of all participants to the important topic being discussed and their appreciation for the work carried out by WCIC.”

Tusitha Kumarkulasingam, Leader of the Policy Advocacy Pillar, outlined the work undertaken by WCIC over the years to promote respectful workplaces. She highlighted extensive research which revealed not only the level of awareness and experiences among employees, but also the lack of action taken to report incidents—largely due to limited knowledge of available procedures and support systems.

She further elaborated on the importance of ratifying C190 and the need to better understand the opportunities it presents.

Attorney-at-Law and C190 expert Shyamali Ranaraja then guided the audience through the key aspects of Convention C190 and existing policy gaps. She encouraged participants to consider practical actions that could be implemented even before formal government reforms are introduced. The discussion underscored the urgent need for specific laws to ensure adequate support mechanisms.

During the interactive session, participants were divided into groups representing employees and entrepreneurs, worker representatives and trade unions, government policymakers, NGOs and CSOs, as well as educators and lecturers.

Over the past few years, in collaboration with the Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), WCIC has undertaken extensive research to better understand the realities faced by professional women and women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka.

Source: Hiru News