Breaking the Silence: Empowering Survivors of Gender-Based Violence in Fiji

Cultural stigma, judgment from healthcare providers, and inadequate privacy in clinical settings are significant obstacles preventing survivors of gender-based violence from seeking assistance, as highlighted by Dr. Lice Vaniqi at the Fiji Medical Association Central Mini Conference in Suva. Dr. Vaniqi pointed out that particularly in rural areas, many women refrain from disclosing their experiences of abuse due to fears of being judged or exposed.

While physical abuse often receives more recognition, Dr. Vaniqi stressed that psychological and emotional violence largely remains misunderstood by survivors and healthcare practitioners alike. She mentioned, “Changing the mindset will take time, but it can be done. Remember, you can be the difference between life and death, safety and risk for a woman, a mother, and her newborn.” This emphasizes the critical role healthcare professionals play in providing supportive and empathetic care.

To address these challenges, Dr. Vaniqi advocated for comprehensive training for all health professionals in empathy, confidentiality, and survivor-centered approaches. Heightened self-awareness among healthcare workers is essential to prevent personal or cultural biases from influencing patient care.

This perspective aligns with the ongoing discussions around the pressing issue of domestic violence in Fiji, as many have called for improved recognition of various forms of gender-based violence and the need for robust community engagement. Initiatives such as the Velomani Training Curriculum aim to better equip health workers to handle disclosures sensitively and effectively while protecting patient confidentiality.

The increasing recognition of these issues points toward a hopeful future where communities can actively work together to create supportive environments for survivors, fostering a culture that prioritizes safety and respect for women and girls in Fiji. Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, community leaders, and civil society organizations may lead to meaningful changes, ultimately reducing the stigma surrounding gender-based violence and encouraging survivors to come forward.