In Cakaudrove, concerns over rising violence against women and children are being linked to long hours spent drinking kava and scrolling through Facebook, according to Maca Shaw, the project coordinator for Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei Cakaudrove. Shaw said many families in the province’s villages are struggling as both men and women drift away from traditional roles at home.
During awareness sessions, Shaw asks men why violence occurs in the home. She recounted responses such as women drinking grog, returning home late, and spending long hours on Facebook. Women, for their part, pointed to men who drink heavily and sleep through the day, then wake up demanding food or intimacy and, when not given what they want, resort to anger and violence. Shaw emphasized that feedback showed both genders had problems, but the core issue was a lack of responsibility in the home. “Men don’t act like fathers and husbands. Women are struggling to care for their children and homes,” she said. She added that ending violence begins at home and requires mutual respect, a clear understanding of each partner’s role, and parents prioritizing their families.
This discussion mirrors broader concerns raised across Fiji about family stability and violence. In Kadavu, for example, leaders have highlighted how excessive kava consumption can contribute to the breakdown of families, with men neglecting their duties for the traditional drink and funds being diverted from essential needs. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged village headmen to take a more active role in their communities, stressing that government cannot do it alone and that communal effort is essential to protect families and maintain cultural identity. Leaders also stress that the role of village headmen extends beyond titles to responsibilities in local governance, dispute resolution, and coordination with authorities for essential services.
The sense of urgency around violence against women and children in Fiji is underscored by national discussions that link domestic violence to deeper issues such as mental health and substance abuse. There is growing momentum for involving men in prevention efforts, promoting respectful relationships, and engaging communities, faith groups, and leaders in survivor-centered support. Additionally, the government has established a national framework to address violence against women and girls, aiming to create safer environments through coordinated action at the family and community levels.
Experts and advocates remain hopeful that progress is possible. With continued dialogue, education for both men and women, stronger community networks, and accountable leadership, households can move toward safer, more respectful dynamics where violence is rejected and families are supported to thrive.
Editor’s note: This piece could benefit from adding local survivor perspectives, resources for reporting abuse, and information on any active community programs or leadership trainings to give readers concrete avenues for support and involvement. Consider a sidebar outlining contact points for help and local initiatives for leaders and educators.
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