Since its establishment in 1984, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) has been a pioneering force in advocating for women’s rights and providing essential services in Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
Located in a prominent area of downtown Suva, the Centre was founded by a group of concerned women responding to the alarming rate of sexual assaults against women in the capital. They recognized the lack of government support for victims, leading to the creation of the Centre, which proudly displays its emblem and messaging throughout its building.
In a historical article from 1985, FWCC founding member Carole Carter recounted a devastating incident involving an expatriate woman who was raped in her home. A police spokesperson highlighted the increasing number of sexual assault cases and expressed the police’s helplessness in addressing the issue, suggesting that women’s choices sometimes contributed to the assaults.
The journey began in early 1983, when community workers, healthcare professionals, and legal experts came together to form Crisis Centres. They convened regularly at the Young Women’s Christian Association and officially established a Feminist Collective in August of that year, which laid the groundwork for the creation of the FWCC.
On August 13, 1984, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre opened its doors, initially focusing on supporting rape victims. However, as the founders delved deeper into the issues regarding violence against women in Fiji, they realized the need to address domestic violence and expanded their mission to support all women and children affected by violence.
Shamima Ali joined the Centre a year after its inception and quickly became the Coordinator, a position she continues to hold today. The FWCC operates as a feminist collective, ensuring that each member has an equal voice in decision-making processes.
The growth of the FWCC over the years reflects a significant commitment to serving those who have experienced trauma. They provide comprehensive support, including counseling, assistance navigating legal proceedings, and emergency housing, while also emphasizing awareness and prevention through educational initiatives.
Initially reliant on volunteer efforts and small community donations, the FWCC faced challenges in securing funding. Although the United Nations offered support during the difficult 1980s, the Fijian government was reluctant to endorse the project, viewing it as potentially damaging to Fiji’s image as a paradise. The government suggested that the Centre remove the word “crisis” from its name.
In response, the FWCC sought assistance from Australia, where initial skepticism about funding violence against women became a roadblock. Nevertheless, in 1990, the Centre received its first financial support from an Australian aid program, marking a pivotal moment for the organization.
By 1994, the Fijian government began directly funding the FWCC, providing consistent financial support for over 34 years, allowing the Centre to continue its vital work in advocating for women’s rights and providing essential services to those in need.