On December 1, World AIDS Day, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) highlighted the urgent link between violence against women and girls (VAWG) and the ongoing HIV/AIDS pandemic. In their announcement, the FWCC emphasized that these two issues are intricately connected, with gender inequality and violence playing major roles in the spread of HIV, particularly among women and girls in Fiji and globally.
The impact of HIV/AIDS is staggering, having claimed over 43.2 million lives worldwide, with young women aged 15 to 24 facing a significantly higher risk. In sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, young women in this demographic are three times more likely to acquire HIV than their male peers, showcasing the undeniable correlation between VAWG and the transmission of HIV.
From January to June 2024, Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services reported 552 new HIV cases, predominantly in Central Fiji, indicating an ongoing health challenge. While sexual transmission accounts for most cases, 15 percent are attributed to needle sharing among injecting drug users, a concerning trend known as “Bluetoothing.”
The FWCC pointed out that violence against women in Fiji both causes and results from HIV infections. Citing their National Prevalence Study, they revealed that approximately 72 percent of women in Fiji experience intimate partner violence, with a disturbing one in three women facing sexual violence from their partners.
The organization also reported that in 2023, they provided support to 204 survivors of rape, which included significant numbers of cases involving marital rape and child victims. They emphasize that violence against women is not only a violation of human rights but also a serious public health issue, noting that women who face violence are more susceptible to contracting HIV, while those living with HIV often suffer additional abuse.
In light of these findings, the FWCC has called for immediate action to address these intertwined crises. The National Action Plan for the Prevention of Violence Against Women (NAP), launched in 2024, recognizes patriarchy and gender inequality as fundamental causes of VAWG. However, the FWCC believes that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to reduce the burden of HIV among women. This includes integrating HIV prevention strategies with initiatives aimed at combating violence against women.
The FWCC urges the public to acknowledge that gender inequality, VAWG, and HIV/AIDS are interrelated challenges that need to be addressed collectively. They advocate for efforts that empower women and girls through enhanced access to education, health care, legal protection, and a safer environment that encourages them to speak out against violence.
In conclusion, the FWCC’s call to action stresses the importance of creating a culture of support and awareness to dismantle societal norms that contribute to violence against women and girls. By taking these critical steps, meaningful progress can be made in preventing HIV, eradicating violence, and ensuring that all women and girls can live free from fear and discrimination.
This article highlights a crucial public health issue, promoting the need for collective action and greater awareness in addressing the dual crises of violence and HIV/AIDS. With concerted efforts and comprehensive support systems in place, we can foster an environment where women and girls thrive.
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