Prevention Strategies for Acid Attacks: A Review of Public Awareness and Policy Interventions

Abstract

Acid attacks function as an extreme form of gender-based violence that permanently damages both physical and mental well-being of primarily women and girls. This paper investigates acid attack prevention methods through the lenses of public education efforts and policy development and community involvement. The public awareness approach to acid violence prevention has shown effectiveness by educating people about acid attack dangers and the fundamental importance of gender equality. The campaigns focus their prevention messages at educational institutions and universities together with community settings to combat social norms that enable violence against women. The Acid Crime Control Act of Bangladesh serves as a fundamental legal tool to fight acid violence through its acid regulation system and its severe penalty structure for violators. Law enforcement success encounters barriers because of inconsistent quality of enforcement and regulatory gaps present in the system. Local leaders together with family members who engage youth in anti-violence discussions represent an essential strategy that protects survivors and stops violence perpetrators from further attacks. Media coverage determines how the public understands acid violence and media platforms actively support laws that provide better protective measures. ASTI organizations have strengthened their global policy efforts through collaboration which allows them to provide resources to victims worldwide. Complete law reform along with community learning initiatives supported by community engagement programs creates permanent change. The adoption of enhanced preventive measures will decrease acid violence occurrences thus creating safe conditions for at-risk populations.