A cabinet minister has strongly condemned the unauthorized distribution of a private video, following revelations from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka that he has sought clarification from her on the issue. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, stated that the video depicts a private interaction between consenting adults, specifically between herself and her husband, which has been taken out of context.
Ms. Tabuya labeled the circulation of such material as a form of technology-facilitated gender-based violence. She underscored the serious issue faced by women and girls in Fiji, where two-thirds report experiencing online violence, particularly in cases where private images are shared without consent. She called for an urgent halt to this practice if there is a genuine commitment to ending violence against women and girls.
The minister emphasized that the illegal distribution of private content is a criminal offense. She pointed out that individuals and organizations involved in spreading the video and framing it as a scandal are complicit in promoting online violence, with women being disproportionately targeted in these incidents.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, she noted that women on social media platforms are attacked significantly more than their male counterparts, and that media outlets perpetuating this violence contribute to a culture of harm. Ms. Tabuya urged the Fiji Media Council to uphold standards of ethical reporting.
She issued a stern warning that anyone involved in sharing the video would face legal repercussions, as a police complaint against the individual distributing the footage will be lodged under the Online Safety Act and the Crimes Act.
In response to media inquiries, Prime Minister Rabuka confirmed that he had contacted the minister for an explanation without speculating on possible disciplinary measures.
This incident illustrates the urgent need for greater awareness and legislative measures to protect individuals from online violence. The focus on consent and respect for privacy can contribute to fostering a safer digital environment for everyone.
In summary, this situation underscores the significant challenges women face regarding online safety and highlights the critical role of ethical media reporting in combating gender-based violence. It is a call to action for society as a whole to stand against such injustices.
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