
Human Rights Bahamas stands in solidarity with the women of The Bahamas who, once again, have been failed by their government. Instead of prioritizing justice and human rights, our leaders have once more succumbed to pressure from church groups and a male-dominated society, refusing to pass legislation to criminalize marital rape.
"Once again, our leaders have chosen political convenience over moral responsibility," said Joseph Darville, Vice President of Human Rights Bahamas. "I am extremely disappointed — especially those with daughters, sisters, mothers, and wives. Shame on you for prioritizing votes over the fundamental rights and dignity of half our population."
A 2024 Gender-Based Violence IDB study revealed that one in four women in The Bahamas has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. Survivors continue to face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, legal protection, and social services.
These are the same women we see repeatedly in national headlines—attacked in public, beaten in their homes, molested on the streets, and, tragically, violated by their own fathers. How must they feel knowing that Attorney General Ryan Pinder has so easily dismissed the promise his government made to implement marital rape laws?
"As leaders, we must walk in the shoes of the marginalized and suffering," Darville continued. "God's protection is meant to shield us from harm, not to justify or enable abuse. Does that protection not extend to women?"
Understanding Marital Rape
Marital rape is defined as non-consensual sexual intercourse between spouses. Some men and religious groups argue that such laws would "weaponise" sex in marriage.
We strongly disagree. A marital rape law does not weaken marriage—it strengthens it by ensuring that respect, consent, and equality remain at its core.
If we cultivate a culture of respect within our marriages, young men will learn to respect women in all aspects of their lives. What message are we sending them now? That it is acceptable to hurt their mothers, sisters, and partners? That dominance over women is their right? The disturbing rise in gender-based violence shows us exactly where this mindset leads.
We know there are many supporters of this law within the government. We call on them to step up and demand action. If this law is once again pushed aside, we urge women to declare: "Enough is enough." Let your voices be heard—at the polls and beyond. The time to stand up for women is now.