The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) has called on the Fiji Police Force to enhance its approach to supporting women survivors of violence. During a recent meeting with Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, FWCC coordinator Shamima Ali raised significant concerns over the inadequacies in police training and the lengthy approval processes for event permits related to women’s rights activities.
Ali emphasized that many officers, particularly new recruits, lack the necessary skills and understanding to handle cases of violence against women effectively. “The lack of understanding of laws, basic investigation procedures, and proper response protocols within the police force is concerning,” she stated. Officers have sometimes been seen as intimidating figures during FWCC events, which further complicates the work of advocating for women’s rights.
She expressed hope for improvements, mentioning that Commissioner Tudravu is open to the idea of integrating specialized training on gender-based violence responses into the police academy’s curriculum. Ali noted that Tudravu has already participated in FWCC training, highlighting a potential shift toward a more informed police force.
The ongoing dialogue reflects a commitment to reform that could lead to a more sensitive and effective police response to domestic violence incidents. This follows previous criticisms from the FWCC regarding the inadequate treatment of domestic violence cases, underscoring the urgent need for police officers to be better equipped to handle such sensitive situations.
With discussions centered around best practices and training, there is a renewed optimism for collaboration between the FWCC and the police, paving the way toward a safer environment for women in Fiji. As both organizations work together to implement changes, the commitment to improving the police response holds the potential for meaningful protections for survivors of domestic violence, promoting a more equitable society for all.
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