The rising incidence of domestic violence in Fiji has prompted health officials to classify it as a public health emergency, calling for immediate and collaborative action across all sectors. The Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, emphasized that this issue transcends legal and social implications, framing it as a critical health crisis that necessitates enhanced support services, community engagement, and public awareness initiatives.
“This is not a private issue, it’s a national crisis,” stated Ravunawa, conveying a message of solidarity to those suffering in silence. Minister for Health, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, also stressed that meaningful change requires a collective approach, indicating that the responsibility does not lie solely with the Ministry of Health.
The urgency of this situation follows a tragic weekend marked by a disturbing increase in domestic violence, resulting in multiple fatalities. These grim events have echoed the sentiments previously shared by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, who highlighted alarming statistics showing that two-thirds of women experience violence from intimate partners in Fiji, significantly above the global average.
Kiran echoed the necessity of community prevention committees to provide education and early intervention to prevent violent escalations. She highlighted the emotional scars left on children exposed to such violence, urging Fijians to seek assistance and emphasizing that endangering families never constitutes a solution.
This escalating crisis has gained the attention of various stakeholders, including civil society and community leaders, who are rallying for urgent action and collective responsibility. The Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls, launched in June 2023, represents governmental commitment to combating this epidemic through community outreach and support initiatives.
The tragic weekend’s events serve as a part of a broader call to action. There is hope that through unified efforts and robust community involvement, Fiji can work toward dismantling the pervasive culture of violence and fostering a future where every home is a sanctuary of safety and respect. The ongoing dialogue within the community reflects an encouraging shift towards addressing domestic violence as a pivotal national issue, showcasing the potential for societal transformation.
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