Fiji’s Battle Against Domestic Violence: A Call for Collective Action

Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua has addressed concerns regarding Fiji’s domestic violence issues, emphasizing that it is not solely the police’s responsibility to solve the problem. His remarks follow critiques about the adequacy of police training in handling domestic violence cases. Naivalurua affirmed that trained officers are present in all police stations to manage such incidents, and he acknowledged the ongoing challenges in addressing domestic violence while highlighting the improvements being made within the police force.

In an interview, he expressed the police’s commitment to the safety of women and children, stating, “We are concerned about the rate of violence but we are fully committed to their safety.” He underscored that tackling domestic violence necessitates collective action from the community, social organizations, and individuals, and not just from law enforcement.

This perspective resonates with the concerns previously raised by Shamima Ali, coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), who has criticized the police’s handling of domestic violence complaints. She has noted that many officers lack the necessary training to effectively address such sensitive issues and that awareness of key policies like the “No Drop” policy—ensuring all domestic violence cases are thoroughly investigated—remains inadequate.

Despite the harsh realities depicted by recent statistics from the FWCC, which recorded over 1,500 new domestic violence cases in 2024, there is a sense of optimism. The ongoing dialogues between the FWCC and police leadership suggest a commitment to reform, aiming to enhance the police’s sensitivity and effectiveness in managing domestic violence incidents. There is a hopeful outlook that these efforts will contribute to a cultural shift within the police force, fostering a more proactive and compassionate approach to protecting vulnerable individuals in society.

As these discussions continue and with the new Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, set to take office, there is potential for significant advancements in how domestic violence cases are handled, reinforcing community trust in law enforcement while prioritizing the safety and well-being of those affected.