Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran, has once again advocated for collective action against the escalating crisis of gender-based violence in Fiji. During her recent address in Parliament, she highlighted the alarming statistics associated with domestic violence, revealing that in just the year 2025 alone, four women and one man have tragically lost their lives to intimate partner violence.
Kiran referred to the “Thursdays in Black” campaign, an international initiative promoting solidarity with survivors of violence by encouraging individuals to wear black every Thursday. She emphasized that by participating in this movement, people help to amplify the voices of survivors, challenge the pervasive culture of silence, and work towards a world free from violence and discrimination.
Significantly, the June 2025 crime report from the Fiji Police Force displayed a worrying 28% increase in sexual offences, with 60% of the victims being minors. Such figures are distressing, reflecting a broader societal issue where domestic violence remains prevalent, often perpetrated by those closest to the victims. Furthermore, crimes against children rose by 8%, with more than half involving sexual abuse, and nearly 25% happening within familial homes.
“Every life lost is one too many. We must stand together and demand change — in our laws, in our homes, and in our hearts,” Kiran urged her colleagues and the community during her speech. She acknowledged the importance of visible unity, thanking her fellow Members of Parliament for their participation in the awareness campaign by wearing black or awareness pins.
This call to action echoes previous efforts by Kiran and other officials, emphasizing a shift in societal attitudes towards domestic violence, which has often been viewed as a private issue. The commitment from both government and community members provides hope for a future where every individual, especially the vulnerable, can thrive in an environment free from fear.
The continued focus on awareness and actionable change underscores a hopeful trajectory for Fiji as it endeavors to foster a culture of respect, safety, and support for all its citizens.
Leave a comment