On December 1, as the world marked World AIDS Day, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) released a stark warning about the alarming interplay between violence against women and girls (VAWG) and the HIV/AIDS crisis. The organization emphasized that these two issues are closely linked, with factors such as gender inequality and violence significantly fueling the spread of HIV, particularly affecting women and girls in Fiji and globally.
HIV/AIDS has resulted in over 43.2 million deaths around the world, with young women aged 15 to 24 are disproportionately affected. In sub-Saharan Africa, they are three times more likely to contract HIV compared to their male counterparts, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions.
In Fiji specifically, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services reported 552 new HIV cases between January and June 2024, predominantly in Central Fiji, where 380 cases were recorded. Although sexual transmission continues to be the primary mode of infection, a worrying trend has emerged—15 percent of new cases are attributed to needle sharing among injecting drug users, a practice referred to as “Bluetoothing”. This trend complicates efforts to tackle the HIV crisis.
The FWCC’s National Prevalence Study revealed that 72 percent of women in Fiji endure intimate partner violence—whether physical, sexual, or emotional. Alarmingly, one in three women has experienced sexual violence from spouses or partners. The FWCC stated, “Violence against women and girls is not just a violation of their human rights, it is also a public health crisis,” noting that those who suffer violence are more likely to contract HIV, while those living with HIV are also more susceptible to experiencing further abuse.
The issue of sexual violence is particularly critical, as it remains a significant risk factor for HIV transmission. In 2023, the FWCC assisted 204 rape survivors, which included 115 cases of marital rape, 61 child rape survivors, and 28 women victims of rape. In response, the FWCC has called for immediate action to address these twin pandemics.
Fiji’s National Action Plan for the Prevention of Violence Against Women (NAP) was launched in 2024, recognizing patriarchy and gender inequality as foundational causes of VAWG. However, the FWCC asserts that more comprehensive efforts are necessary to diminish the HIV burden among women. This involves a multifaceted approach that encompasses both HIV prevention and combating violence against women.
“Gender inequality, VAWG, and HIV/AIDS cannot be tackled in isolation,” the FWCC contended. They advocate for addressing the root causes of violence while providing comprehensive support for women and girls, empowering them to secure their health and rights. This includes enhancing access to education, health services, legal protections, and fostering an environment conducive to women speaking out against violence.
The FWCC concluded by calling for a collective commitment to build a culture of awareness and support that challenges societal norms perpetuating violence against women and girls. Only through these concerted efforts can meaningful progress be made towards preventing HIV, ending violence against women, and ensuring safe, non-discriminatory lives for women and girls.
It’s important to remain hopeful amidst these challenges. By working together to raise awareness and implement supportive measures, communities can foster an environment where women and girls are empowered, leading to healthier lives and a reduction in both violence and HIV transmission.
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