Domestic violence continues to be a pressing issue in Fiji, prompting leaders to advocate for increased male participation in efforts to combat this crisis. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, highlighted the vital role men can play by directly addressing harmful attitudes among their peers and promoting respect and healthier expressions of anger.
In her remarks, Qereqeretabua underscored that discussions among men can be instrumental in breaking the cycle of violence, noting that violence is never an acceptable way to resolve disputes. She called for families to engage in open dialogues about domestic violence issues to create a safer environment.
Similarly, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Iferemi Vasu, pointed out that domestic violence is often linked to deeper issues, including mental health problems and substance abuse. He emphasized that community leaders need to engage more deeply with their communities to understand the challenges they face. Vasu reinforced that collective action from families, communities, faith groups, and particularly men, is crucial in supporting victims and taking proactive measures against abuse.
The ongoing discourse around domestic violence has garnered attention from various sectors, echoing calls from Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, who urged community leaders and faith-based organizations to recognize the prevalence of domestic violence within their spheres and to challenge patriarchal norms actively. This collectively aligns with a growing recognition that domestic violence is not merely a private issue but a critical national concern that requires urgent and sustained communal effort.
The recent tragic incidents of domestic violence underline the urgency of these discussions. In light of alarming statistics—where nearly two-thirds of women in Fiji experience physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives—the commitment from various community and government leaders to tackle this issue head-on is a glimmer of hope.
The importance of raising awareness and engaging in preventative strategies promises a future where families can thrive in safe environments, free from the threat of violence. Collaborative efforts aimed at education and cultural change illuminate a path toward significant improvements in societal attitudes, fostering a community where respect and compassion prevail.
Through ongoing dialogue and advocacy, Fiji strives toward creating a safer, more supportive society for all its citizens, emphasizing the critical role that collective action and male advocacy play in this endeavor.
Leave a comment