Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran has emphasized the urgent need for a transformative shift in societal attitudes and behaviors towards women and children in Fiji, citing that entrenched harmful social norms contribute significantly to the alarming rates of violence against these vulnerable groups.
During a candlelight vigil held at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Suva, Ms. Kiran reflected on the grim toll of gender-based violence in the country, noting that Fiji has already witnessed the loss of nine lives to such violence this year alone. She pointed out that efforts to combat this issue have predominantly centered on reactive measures rather than preventative strategies.
“We cannot keep putting bandages on a wound our society keeps reopening,” she stated, stressing that to effectively combat violence, there needs to be a challenge to the underlying beliefs, practices, and power dynamics that have normalized such behavior in homes and communities. The minister highlighted the Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (2023-2028), recently endorsed by the Cabinet, as a strategic initiative aimed at addressing these root causes. This comprehensive plan has been developed with extensive input from communities, faith leaders, educators, health professionals, and survivors.
Current initiatives include a review of the Family Life Education curriculum, collaborations with major faith organizations to reshape community attitudes, the establishment of national shelter guidelines, and enhancements to service delivery protocols. Furthermore, there is a commitment to instill a zero-tolerance policy within the public service, reinforcing the message that violence against women and children will not be tolerated.
Acknowledging the role of traditional and community leaders, Ms. Kiran noted that provincial councils have started incorporating prevention strategies into their cultural frameworks, recognizing the profound impact of community norms on behavior.
Drawing from her personal experience of losing a cousin to domestic violence, she underscored the damaging effects of silence and inaction within families. “Such cases illustrate the critical importance of early intervention and community support for women seeking help,” she remarked.
Ms. Kiran called for courage from every household and leader in Fiji to foster an environment where women and girls are respected, safeguarded, and free to live without fear. She concluded by reminding attendees of the vigil, part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, that the journey toward prevention requires ongoing commitment and effort beyond the designated campaign period.
This proactive stance against violence highlights a hopeful pathway towards building safer, supportive communities for women and girls across Fiji.
Leave a comment