The Scottish Government has launched a landmark scheme providing free legal aid and representation to survivors of domestic abuse, irrespective of income level. The move comes after years of advocacy from women’s rights organizations and marks a major step in ensuring access to justice.
The program covers court representation, restraining orders, and child custody matters. A newly created task force will also assist survivors in navigating the legal system. The initiative has received strong support from both ruling and opposition parties in the Scottish Parliament.
Women’s welfare groups in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh say this sets a powerful example for countries where legal aid remains out of reach for many victims of gender-based violence. Campaigners are now pushing for a South Asian regional legal aid framework.
