Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, emphasized the importance of the global campaign, ’16 Days of Activism,’ aimed at ending violence against women and children. This initiative provides a vital platform for public education on a significant social issue.
Tabuya pointed out alarming statistics, indicating that about 90 percent of violence perpetrators are family members who are related to their victims. She highlighted the crucial role education plays in disrupting this cycle of abuse and called upon community leaders, schools, and families to engage in meaningful conversations about the issue.
Fiji is reported to have one of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the Pacific, with studies suggesting that more than 60 percent of women experience some form of violence in their lifetime. In response to this crisis, the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection is collaborating with various stakeholders to hold workshops, community discussions, and advocacy programs designed to empower victims and educate potential offenders.
The theme for this year’s campaign, “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Children,” serves as a powerful call to action to eliminate violence at all levels of society.
This campaign represents a hopeful step toward fostering a culture of safety and respect, encouraging communities to take a stand against violence. By promoting awareness and education, there is a path forward to diminish these troubling statistics and create a more secure environment for women and children.
Through collective action, society can strive toward creating a future free from violence, enhancing the well-being of every individual and strengthening community ties.
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