The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence commenced recently, and Asinate Ofa from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) emphasized the urgent need for action to dismantle the culture of silence surrounding violence and adverse childhood experiences in her country. As one of the moderators at the launch event held at Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva, she shared her personal struggles and insights on the ongoing issue.
Ms. Ofa recounted her traumatic upbringing, where she experienced violence at the hands of her father starting at the age of 19. She highlighted that despite the numerous discussions around this critical subject, insufficient efforts have been made to address the root causes of violence against women and girls. “Many women still allow traditional norms to silence them and dictate how they respond to such adversities,” she lamented.
She reflected on her childhood observation of her mother’s suffering due to domestic violence, which has left lasting physical and psychological impacts on her life. As a survivor, Ms. Ofa believes sharing her story can help others, stating, “We need to raise awareness on the importance of ending that cycle of violence, and it begins with us and how we choose to handle our situations.”
IOM’s Chief of Mission, Solomon Kantha, added that alarming statistics reveal two out of three women experience domestic violence, underscoring that significant work remains to be done in addressing these issues comprehensively.
In a hopeful outlook, Ms. Ofa expressed her eagerness to hear from others who have faced similar challenges, envisioning a collective movement towards breaking the silence surrounding this critical issue. This event not only raises awareness but also fosters a supportive environment where victims can find strength in their narratives, ultimately contributing to a society that prioritizes safety and respect for all individuals.
The ongoing initiative seeks to empower survivors and encourage dialogue, indicating a positive shift towards addressing gender-based violence.
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