The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) has publicly criticized the Fiji Police Force (FPF) for its inadequate handling of domestic violence cases, highlighting a troubling trend where police responses contribute to ongoing risks for victims. The criticisms follow a heated exchange between FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh and Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, with Singh emphasizing that the police’s dismissive approach is endangering lives in a country with alarmingly high rates of violence against women.

Recent findings conducted by FWRM reveal that women take an average of 868 days, or approximately 2.5 years, before seeking help for domestic violence. Upon finally reaching out, only half of the women reported feeling safe at police stations, with many experiencing harassment from officers. This disheartening feedback underscores the urgency for reform within police training programs, which have shifted focus away from essential crisis intervention strategies towards less relevant physical training.

The situation has been made even more urgent given that the FWCC has recorded over 1,500 new domestic violence cases in 2024, with underreporting likely inflating this number. Advocates have increasingly called for a thorough review of the police’s practices, including a reassessment of the “No Drop” policy, which aims to ensure all domestic violence complaints are investigated regardless of the victim’s willingness to press charges. However, a significant gap exists in officers’ understanding and implementation of this policy, leading to a lack of effective protection for victims.

Moreover, this criticism has been amplified by past incidents, including a recent murder-suicide connected to police inaction following a domestic violence report. This suggests systemic failures where protocols meant to safeguard victims are not upheld, further entrenched by a culture of ignorance about domestic violence dynamics.

In response to these ongoing issues, both the FWCC and FWRM emphasize the need for immediate and comprehensive police training to improve understanding and action against domestic violence. Minister Lynda Tabuya has echoed these sentiments, advocating for a collective approach that includes community involvement and accessible support services.

The dialogue surrounding these issues offers a glimmer of hope for necessary reforms within the FPF, aiming to cultivate a safer environment for women and other vulnerable individuals in Fiji. Continued advocacy and awareness efforts are crucial for transforming law enforcement responses and building public trust in systems designed to protect against domestic violence.

In summary, there is a critical and urgent need for significant reform within Fiji’s police force concerning domestic violence cases, emphasizing the importance of vulnerable individuals receiving effective, sensitive, and timely support. The call for better training and accountability reflects a strong hope for a future where women in Fiji can live free from fear and receive the protection they deserve.