The prevalence and harm caused by acid attacks is to be discussed by the Human Rights Subcommittee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade (JSCFADT) in a public hearing for the inquiry into the rights of women and children. The filmmakers of the award-winning documentary Geeta, including the subjects of the film, are to provide an insight into the lives of survivors and their campaign to prevent acid attacks.
Chair of the Human Rights Subcommittee Ms Maria Vamvakinou MP stated that:
“The story of Geeta and her daughter Neetu exemplifies the challenges and complexities involved in addressing gender-based violence. Acid attacks are a particularly horrific form of harm facing women and children today, and have long-term implications for women’s health, safety, and engagement in their communities. It is imperative for the Subcommittee to understand what drives this behaviour and what options are open to regulators in preventing acid attacks.”
Submissions to the inquiry are being accepted, and are requested to be provided to the Subcommittee by Friday, 16 December 2022. Submissions containing graphic material will not be accepted to the inquiry. Submissions should be lodged online using a My Parliament account.
Further information about the inquiry, including published submissions and hearing transcripts, will be available on the inquiry webpage.
Public hearing details in Canberra
Time: 12.15 pm – 1.00 pm AEDT
Date: Wednesday, 23 November 2022
Location: Committee Room 1R4, Parliament House
The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.
