The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has demonstrated its commitment to combatting violence against women and girls, emphasizing its importance in traditional iTaukei communities across Fiji. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, expressed her appreciation for the GCC’s recognition of this critical issue, which affects many families in the region.
Minister Tabuya acknowledged the GCC’s discussions, which also included topics such as substance abuse and school dropout rates, notably focusing on the adverse effects of violence against women and girls. She highlighted the alarming statistic that two out of three women in Fiji have faced violence during their lifetime, underscoring the urgency of collective action in addressing these challenges.
The Ministry’s initiatives align with the Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls (Fiji NAP), which aims to prevent and address various types of violence against women. Tabuya praised the collaboration between the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the iTaukei Affairs Board, which strengthens the initiative’s outreach to vulnerable communities, ranging from urban areas to rural villages.
In her vision for the future, Tabuya expressed hope for communities where safety is a priority for everyone. She emphasized that through collaboration, communities can work together to cultivate respect and prevent violence, paving the way for healthier relationships and safer environments.
This united approach highlights a growing recognition of the importance of addressing violence and fostering safety, showing promise for a more harmonious future for all Fijians. By prioritizing this issue, the GCC and government agencies are taking meaningful strides toward building a society where women and girls can thrive free from violence.
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