Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre coordinator Shamima Ali has highlighted a significant lack of alternatives for women seeking refuge after escaping violent relationships. She emphasized that there is a need for affordable housing and welfare funds to adequately support these women.
Ali acknowledged the efforts of civil society organizations and the government, noting that the National Action Plan is making gradual progress. However, given Fiji’s alarming rates of domestic violence, she stressed that more options are essential for providing safe spaces for victims to heal.
“The National Development Plan is being implemented slowly; it has some positive aspects, but the pace is frustrating, dependent on community acceptance and other factors,” she explained.
Ali pointed out that while there are various support systems in place, there is an urgent need for direct assistance to women. This includes affordable housing alternatives and welfare resources for those wishing to leave abusive relationships. She criticized the insufficient number of shelters available for domestic violence survivors, which are primarily operated by civil society organizations, with few options specifically for women.
She urged the government to take more decisive action and called on the donor community to support effective initiatives rather than duplicating existing efforts by civil society organizations.
Civil society organizations often struggle for funds to provide adequate housing options. Currently, many rely on alternative housing arrangements such as HART housing, Koroipita, and the Public Rental Board, which can be expensive.
Additionally, Ali mentioned the potential for funding from the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank to develop housing specifically for women. She reiterated the importance of sustainable government support for such initiatives.
Furthermore, she emphasized the need for improved policing of violence against women and girls, pointing out a significant gap in this area.