Technology-enabled gender-based violence continues to be a significant issue for Pacific island nations, according to Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women. She emphasized this concern during a graduation event for 42 individuals who participated in the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre’s (FWCC) 44th regional training program focused on gender, violence against women and girls, human rights, and development.
The rigorous four-week training, which commenced on July 29, concluded with a ceremony on Thursday at Yatu Lau in Suva. In her address, Ms. Tabuya highlighted the advancements made in safeguarding Pacific women and children from the challenges posed by gender-based violence. However, she acknowledged that further efforts are required and pointed to Fiji’s implementation of its inaugural National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (2021-2026) as a positive step forward.
Ms. Tabuya credited civil society organizations for their support in these initiatives. She stated, “We finally recognize patriarchy as the root cause of gender-based violence and gender inequality.” Additionally, she expressed concern over the underrepresentation of Pacific women in political positions and commended Kiribati for electing five women to its Parliament.
Throughout the training, participants engaged in discussions on various violence-related issues, covering topics such as rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment, child abuse, and human rights laws. The program also addressed the influence of media, climate change, online violence, reproductive rights, and pornography on violence against women and girls.
FWCC coordinator Shamima Ali expressed satisfaction with the increasing number of individuals seeking to eliminate violence against women and girls who are applying for the training. She noted that the program, which began in 1995, has generated numerous success stories from participating communities and countries.
This year’s participants hailed from Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Samoa, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, West Papua, and Nauru.