Gender-based violence, domestic violence and civil liability for intra-family torts in Colombia

Abstract

The Colombian Constitutional Court recognized the compensation of intrafamily torts within a process where issues of gender violence are aired, to guarantee the fundamental right of women to live free of violence and to be compensated. This historic decision enables greater protection for victims; however, it presents critical points regarding the protection of other family members who may be victims of abuse or domestic violence. This work presents these points and highlights the possibilities existing in civil law, to achieve compensation for intra-family torts.