Power and traditional authority are being linked to ongoing sexual violence in Fiji, as community workers highlight troubling patterns of abuse by men in positions of influence. Soqosoqo Vakamarama o Cakaudrove project coordinator Maca Shaw says powerful men, including chiefs and village headmen, are often the main perpetrators, using their status to harm others or justify abusive behavior as “parental authority.” The group is calling for stronger accountability for community leaders and better education around respectful relationships, insisting leadership should never be a cover for violence.
Shaw’s remarks come amid broader concerns about domestic and gender-based violence in Fiji. Activists note that abuse remains a persistent national issue, with leaders across government and civil society urging men to confront harmful attitudes and to model healthier expressions of anger and respect within families. Recent discussions emphasize that violence is never an acceptable way to resolve disputes and that families should engage in open conversations about these issues to foster safer environments.
Advocates also point to the deeper social dynamics that enable abuse. The idea that abusers are protected by family or community norms—often reinforced by religious or cultural influence—has been described as a “conspiracy of silence.” Experts say victims frequently confront pressure to stay silent, with questions about finances and breadwinning complicating their decisions to seek help. This reality underscores the need for trusted support networks and accessible reporting channels.
The conversation about accountability and preventive action is supported by a broader policy and advocacy framework in Fiji. Government and partners have stressed the importance of male participation in preventing violence, alignment with national action plans to protect women and girls, and ongoing education to shift cultural norms. Campaigns such as the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women highlight the urgency of community-led efforts to change attitudes and strengthen protections for survivors.
Statistics cited by researchers and advocacy groups add gravity to the dialogue. Studies over the years have shown alarming rates of violence against women in Fiji, with many surveys placing lifetime prevalence around two-thirds of women and some newer figures suggesting even higher figures in certain populations. Reports also indicate a high incidence of violence within intimate relationships, including physical and sexual violence, and note that perpetrators are often individuals close to victims, including family members or people in trusted positions. In response, leaders at the national and community levels reiterate a commitment to prevention, reporting, and survivor-centered support, alongside promises to address the structural drivers of abuse.
Looking ahead, experts and officials emphasize hopeful signs: increased dialogue, education for both men and women, stronger community networks, and a more visible commitment from leaders to hold abusers accountable. With coordinated actions across families, communities, faith groups, and government, there is a sense that Fiji can move toward safer, more respectful relationships where leadership stands for protection and care rather than harm.
Summary: Community advocates in Fiji are tying sexual violence to power dynamics and urging stronger accountability for leaders, along with education on respectful relationships. While alarmingly high violence rates persist, there is momentum for broader public discourse, male engagement, and survivor-centered support within a national framework aimed at changing attitudes and reducing abuse.
Additional comments for publication:
– Consider adding a sidebar with resources for survivors and reporting channels in Fiji, as well as information on any recent local programs or trainings for leaders and educators.
– If possible, include quotes from local women’s groups or community leaders to illustrate the grassroots perspective and ongoing efforts.
– A short explainer on the “conspiracy of silence” concept could help readers understand the social barriers to reporting abuse and why cultural change is a key part of prevention.
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