ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that producers of acid and businesses that use acid in their operations also have a responsibility under the Guiding Principles to take measures to prevent acid violence and to assist victims with adequate remedy. It argues that the state and corporations benefiting from the sale and use of acid have due diligence obligations to address the harms. Acid attacks occur in many countries, including Uganda, Ethiopia, Colombia, the United States, India, and many other South Asian countries. Acid violence is gender-based violence and, as such, international treaty obligations require that the Indian government prevent and redress acid attacks. Acid violence also leads to serious mental and emotional suffering. Gender discrimination motivates a significant majority of acid attacks. Perpetrators throw acid on women and girl-victims for transgressing traditional, subordinating gender roles. Gender-based violence is any form of violence that either disproportionately affects women or results from gender discrimination and inequality.
