Efforts to combat gender-based violence in Fiji are gaining momentum through the National Action Plan (NAP) spearheaded by the Minister for Women and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran. Tragically, five lives have been lost due to gender-related violence as of last month. Minister Kiran emphasizes that meaningful change requires action from everyone in the community, not just government initiatives.
The National Action Plan aims to foster collaboration between government entities, faith groups, and traditional leaders to facilitate lasting cultural change. Kiran stated, “Through crime prevention committees, we are working on how to prevent gender-based violence and violence against children in every community. There is a lot of work ahead, but I believe that if all of us put our minds to it, we can succeed.”
The NAP will encompass various strategies, including curriculum changes, village outreach, and vital legal reforms. Six ministries are receiving funding to tackle the issue of gender-based violence. The initiative also seeks to involve the Great Council in outreach efforts, aiming to integrate supportive measures into village bylaws.
Moreover, Kiran acknowledged concerns regarding police response times, emphasizing that police can act only after a crime has been committed. She urged family and community members to be vigilant and to alert authorities when they spot potential risks.
In response to the growing concern regarding online attacks targeting women, the Online Safety Commission is currently working to establish prosecution powers and is in the process of hiring an in-house prosecutor, which indicates a proactive approach to ensuring safety in the digital realm.
Recent discussions surrounding gender-based violence also echo the necessity for community engagement, highlighted by previous comments from Kiran addressing the severe trauma experienced by children in violent households. The establishment of community prevention committees aims to educate citizens on recognizing domestic violence signs and intervening before situations escalate.
The collective efforts demonstrated by the government and community leaders reflect a commitment to eradicate gender-based violence and create a supportive environment for all Fijians. This endeavor fosters hope for a future where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued in their community. By uniting in this fight, there is the potential for transformative change in Fiji’s societal fabric.
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