Violence against women and girls is any act of gender-based violence that results in or is likely to result in physical, sexual, or mental harm or suffering for women.

Violence against women, adolescents, and girls is one of the most common human rights violations worldwide. In El Salvador and around the world, many cases occur every day.

This important issue was the focus of one of the “Nuestra Mañana” programs on Agape TV, where our legal advisor from the Litigation and Arbitration Department, Chrystal Reyes, was invited to discuss the topic.

Our expert pointed out that violence against women has a negative impact on the social environment and that, in addition to leaving negative consequences on women, it also affects family members, friends, and the community.

“This violence prevents women and girls from fully participating on an equal footing in Salvadoran society, causing serious physical, economic, and psychological effects in the short, medium, and long term,” she affirmed.

Chrystal also clarified the difference between partner violence and sexual violence. Partner violence encompasses behaviors that a partner or former partner may engage in, causing physical harm, sexual coercion, psychological abuse, and control.

On the other hand, sexual violence is an act directed against a person’s sexuality through coercion by another individual, regardless of their relationship with the victim.

“One of the most common forms of violence suffered by women worldwide can include economic, psychological, emotional, physical, and sexual violence,” she added.

Our expert explained that in El Salvador, there is the Special Comprehensive Law for a Life Free of Violence for Women (LEIV), which aims to establish, recognize, and guarantee women’s right to a life free of violence.

LEIV came into effect on January 1, 2012, and contains 61 articles. This legislation includes the crimes of femicide and aggravated femicide, which can be punishable by prison sentences ranging from 20 to 50 years.

Finally, our legal expert called on the audience to report any expression of violence against Salvadoran girls, adolescents, and women, as well as the importance of understanding the factors and consequences to promote healthy and trustworthy spaces within communities.

For inquiries, you can reach out to our social media channels or contact our legal team at our offices located at Cuscatlán Street, #4312, Escalón Neighborhood, San Salvador, El Salvador.