In Fiji, a transformative approach is underway to combat violence against women, driven primarily by discussions within religious communities. The initiative, anchored by the “Thursdays in Black” movement, aims to challenge the deeply embedded societal norms that perpetuate violence against women. Statistics indicate that nearly two-thirds of women aged 18-64 in Fiji have encountered physical or sexual violence from intimate partners, nearly double the global average, highlighting a critical issue that is increasingly alarming.
Mereani Elizabeth, a project officer with the Methodist Women’s Fellowship, has been at the forefront of these discussions. She notes that the prosecution office’s monthly reports indicate a disturbing rise in cases of violence against women. In response to this alarming trend, Elizabeth advocates for “gender equality theology,” which seeks to reinterpret biblical teachings to promote equality and respect for women within church communities.
The Methodist Church, with its significant following (65% of Fiji’s population identifies as Christian), is uniquely positioned to lead this cultural shift. Elizabeth and her colleagues are working tirelessly to engage church leaders, men, women, and youth in open dialogues about sensitive issues that have long been taboo, such as domestic violence and child protection. They aim to cultivate an understanding that violence against women is unacceptable and must not be tolerated.
This initiative is further supported by international movements like the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women, which aligns local efforts with a broader global agenda. Elizabeth believes that these discussions and workshops provide a “safe space” for marginalized voices, allowing communities to confront difficult topics openly.
There is optimism as church leaders begin to preach about the importance of eradicating violence against women from their pulpits. Previous attitudes that appeared to condone silence around domestic issues are being challenged. Elizabeth emphasizes that families need to engage in these vital conversations to break the cycle of violence and impart critical lessons on respect and equality to the next generation.
Furthermore, the church’s commitment extends beyond individual cases of violence; it emphasizes the collective responsibility within communities to create an environment where women feel safe and valued. This holistic approach — integrating faith, community engagement, and proactive measures — embodies a hopeful vision for a future where gender equality prevails, and violence against women is eradicated. As these efforts continue to gain traction, the vision of safer, more inclusive communities in Fiji appears increasingly attainable.
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