The Social Welfare and Women's Empowerment (formally known as the Ministry of Women's Affairs) addresses issues related to violence against women.

In 1978, the government established a Women's Bureau to improve the quality of women's lives; serve as a link between NGOs and the government, advise the government on policy issues and monitor policy implementation.

In 1993, the Women's Charter was adopted to ensure full advancement and development of women, reflecting the influence of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

In the same year, the National Committee of Women (NCW) was set up. It lobbies on legislation affecting women and shares a consultative status while determining policy issues relating to women.

The National Plan of Action for Women in Sri Lanka was chalked out by the Ministry of Women's Affairs in collaboration with the National Committee of Women.

The Draft Matrimonial Causes Bill was drafted to allow divorce by mutual consent.

The government set up "Diri Piyasas" or crisis centers for violence. In February 1997, the introduction of a 24-hour domestic violence help line met with an overwhelming response, showing the gravity of the problem.