A 24-year-old New Zealand woman whose video on sexual harassment in Sri Lanka went viral has stressed that the incident does not reflect the safety of the country or its people, praising Sri Lankans and law enforcement for their swift response.
The solo traveller said she received overwhelming support from locals during her stay and described Sri Lanka as “an amazing country to travel”, adding that she would continue to recommend it to other women travelling alone. She noted that one individual’s behaviour should not define an entire destination.
“One incident does not define a country, and it doesn’t define solo female travel. Sri Lanka is an incredible country,” the traveller said, adding that she is happy the incident has started a conversation on women’s safety.
Her original video, which documented a man exposing himself while following her in a tuk-tuk, drew millions of views and triggered a wide internet debate on women’s safety and solo female travel. She said it was frustrating that the conversation had shifted into victim-blaming, but acknowledged that such incidents can occur anywhere in the world.
Following the video’s circulation, Sri Lankan media helped identify the suspect and police immediately launched a manhunt. Officers traced and arrested the individual within four days, with the matter currently before court. The traveller thanked the Sri Lankan police for what she described as an “incredible” and proactive response.
She said her experience in the country was overwhelmingly positive apart from the single incident, and that she encountered kindness, generosity, and assistance from locals throughout her journey.
She added that while global conversations on women’s safety remain important, isolated cases should not overshadow the reality that Sri Lanka remains a welcoming destination for travellers. (Newswire)