Online abuse aimed at women and girls in Fiji is on the rise, leading to urgent calls for action from advocates like Shamima Ali, the Coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre. Ali highlights that this form of technology-facilitated violence is increasingly pervasive and just as damaging as physical violence, creating new layers of trauma that worsen the existing risks women and girls face daily.
The alarming trend of online abuse, often hidden behind the anonymity of screens, is spreading throughout social media and messaging platforms. Ali stresses that this issue is an extension of the gender-based violence deeply entrenched in societal attitudes rather than a standalone crisis. She notes the fragmented response to online abuse, suggesting that frontline organizations need coordinated support to tackle this urgent matter effectively.
In response to this growing threat, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and stated that the government is reviewing existing legislation to improve protections and enforcement measures. Efforts include strengthening the Telecommunications Act and the Online Safety Commission Act to ensure that women are safeguarded against online threats.
Minister Lynda Tabuya also emphasized the importance of empowering online regulatory bodies and has highlighted the need for legislative reform to provide better protection for women who experience online harassment. The government is additionally collaborating with international organizations like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to better understand the mental and physical health impacts of such harassment.
As part of a proactive approach to this issue, Tabuya announced plans for a young women’s forum to discuss strategies for combating technology-facilitated gender-based violence. This forum, part of the upcoming 16 Days of Activism campaign, aims to engage young women in creating solutions to address the online safety challenges they face.
The troubling escalation of online and gender-based violence in Fiji underscores an urgent need for community involvement and education, highlighting the necessity for sustained collective action from various sectors, including government, law enforcement, and technology platforms.
This call for robust action and reform offers a glimmer of hope for the future, suggesting that with coordinated efforts and increased awareness, Fiji could pave the way for a safer, more equitable digital landscape for women and girls. The ongoing discussions around these issues reflect a growing commitment to fostering environments where women’s safety and dignity are prioritized, contributing to healthier communities overall.
Leave a comment