The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) in Fiji has taken a significant step towards combating violence against women and girls within traditional iTaukei communities. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, commended the GCC and its chair, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, for prioritizing this critical issue.
Minister Tabuya emphasized the importance of addressing violence, drug abuse, and school dropout rates, particularly their effects on women and girls within these communities. The ministry recognizes that these issues have a profound impact on the iTaukei community, with data indicating that two out of three women in Fiji have faced violence at some point in their lives.
The Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls (Fiji NAP) works in alignment with the GCC’s focus, seeking to prevent and respond to all forms of violence experienced by women and girls. The Minister expressed gratitude towards the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the iTaukei Affairs Board for their collaboration in this effort.
By engaging with traditional leaders and community organizations, the ministry aims to strengthen the reach of the Fiji NAP to the most vulnerable populations across urban, rural, and maritime areas. Minister Tabuya envisions a future where all communities in Fiji are safe, emphasizing the power of collective action in preventing violence and fostering respectful relationships at all levels of society.
This renewed commitment from traditional leaders and the government underscores a hopeful trend towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for women and girls, which can ultimately lead to stronger, healthier communities throughout Fiji.
In summary, the collaboration between the GCC and government initiatives is a promising development in the fight against violence in Fiji, highlighting the importance of collective actions and partnerships in addressing deeply rooted societal issues.
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