Fiji’s Domestic Violence Crisis: A Call for Action

In Fiji, the alarming rate of domestic violence poses a severe threat to women, with staggering statistics indicating that two out of every three women experience such violence, significantly higher than the global average of one in three. The economic toll of domestic violence in Fiji is estimated to be around $300 million annually, representing 7% of the country’s GDP.

During a recent session in Parliament, Minister for Women and Children, Sashi Kiran, presented sobering data that underscores the severity of this issue. A study conducted by Dr. Lice Soraurau Vaniqi at the Nadi Maternity Antenatal Clinic revealed that among 345 surveyed women, 71.6% had experienced domestic violence in their lifetime, with 13% reporting physical violence during pregnancy. The majority of this violence was perpetrated by husbands or partners.

Minister Kiran also highlighted that a significant number of children witness these violent acts, which leads to lifelong emotional and psychological scars, not only for the victims but also for the children involved. According to police statistics, the Western Division of Fiji has the highest reporting rates, accounting for 37% to 40% of all domestic violence cases against women in the past five years, while the Eastern Division accounts for 17-18%, and the Northern and Central Divisions are lower at 11% and 3.3% respectively.

Building on previous discussions, these insights echo earlier concerns raised by community leaders and activists regarding the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat domestic violence in Fiji. Initiatives are underway to promote awareness and enhance legal protections for victims, emphasizing the necessity of community involvement in eradicating patriarchal attitudes that normalize violence.

Despite the grim statistics, there is a collective hope that through concerted efforts, such as community engagement and support programs, Fiji can work towards breaking the cycle of violence. By fostering environments of respect and non-violence, there is potential for significant improvement in the lives of women and children across the nation.