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Illustration of Action plan rollout | A crucial point in the fight against high rates of gender-based violence

Fiji’s Bold Move Against Gender-Based Violence: Will It Succeed?

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The launch of Fiji’s National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls for the years 2023-2028 represents a significant step forward in addressing the nation’s high rates of gender-based violence. Yet, local women’s rights organizations face persistent systemic challenges that obstruct access to safe services for survivors. Last year, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre documented 956 new cases of domestic violence. However, coordinator Shamima Ali insists that these figures likely underrepresent the reality in many communities.

Ali cited multiple reasons for the underreporting of domestic violence and sexual assault, with stigma and the known identities of perpetrators posing significant barriers. Survivors often fear that their abusers, who may have ties to police or other authorities, can influence the outcome of reporting. “Some women report they hesitate to speak out because their husbands have connections with the police,” she remarked. “We urgently call on law enforcement to address these issues, as their involvement is critical to effective intervention.”

The implementation of the National Action Plan is expected to be a pivotal tool in combating violence against women and girls. However, Ali expressed concerns regarding the plan’s effectiveness, urging against mere performative measures without genuine action and commitment. She pointed out misconceptions surrounding domestic violence, emphasizing that it is rooted not in anger management, as some reports suggested, but in deeper issues of patriarchy and societal attitudes.

In conjunction with the NAP rollout, the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection plans to conduct a Fiji Rapid Community Attitudes Survey. This initiative aims to understand community perceptions surrounding violence against women and children, with the collaboration of organizations such as UNICEF and Dalberg Global Development Advisors. The insights gained from this survey will be crucial in shaping responses and interventions for victims of violence.

Furthermore, ongoing efforts include awareness sessions conducted in conjunction with the 16 Days of Activism campaign, reinforcing support for survivors across police stations nationwide. These initiatives highlight a commitment to fostering safe environments and improving attitudes toward gender-based violence.

The national dialogue surrounding the National Action Plan and the intended community survey symbolizes a proactive approach toward changing harmful societal norms around gender. By involving community leaders and various stakeholders, Fiji is taking vital steps toward creating a safer, more equitable society, fostering hope for a positive transformation in the lives of women and children.

In summary, while substantial challenges remain, the concerted efforts driven by the implementation of the National Action Plan and community engagement initiatives represent a beacon of hope in the fight against gender-based violence in Fiji. It is a crucial moment for collective action and societal change, reinforcing the commitment to protect and empower vulnerable populations.


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