Domestic violence is a pressing issue in Fiji, mirroring trends seen around the globe. The nation has faced elevated rates of domestic and gender-based violence for an extended period. Recent research conducted by Anand Chand, Maureen Karan, David Mapuru, and Unaisi Nabobo-Baba provides valuable insights into the practices of the Fiji Police Force regarding domestic violence resolution. The study focused on five key research questions related to police awareness and implementation of a zero-tolerance policy towards domestic violence, officers’ perceptions of the seriousness of domestic violence, preferred methods for resolving such cases, and suggestions for improvement.
Acting Commissioner of the Fiji Police Force, Juki Fond Chew, authorized the research, which surveyed 5,000 police officers stationed at 29 sites across Viti Levu, home to the majority of Fiji’s population. The surveyed officers exhibited a diverse ethnic makeup: 70.2% identified as indigenous Fijians (iTaukei), 26.5% as Indo-Fijians, and 3.3% from other ethnicities. Gender breakdown revealed that 66.7% of participants were male while 33.3% were female, mirroring the overall gender distribution within the police force. The experience levels varied, with 37.3% of officers having 1-3 years on the job.
In terms of policy awareness, an impressive 89% of officers reported being aware of the zero-tolerance policy regarding domestic violence; however, 11% claimed they were not, despite having received training on the subject at the Fiji Police Academy. A closer inspection indicated that most of those unaware of the policy belonged to the 18-31 age group.
When the researchers examined the implementation of the zero-tolerance policy, they found only 29.3% of officers actively practiced this approach when responding to domestic violence reports. This significant discrepancy between awareness and actual practice highlights a concerning gap in the policy’s enforcement at the frontline level. Most of those who disregarded the policy were male officers, which may reflect prevailing patriarchal attitudes that influence police responses.
Additionally, 70.7% of officers admitted to encouraging traditional methods for resolving domestic violence disputes. Such customary practices, rooted in the cultures of both indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, often prioritize reconciliation over accountability, often disadvantaging female victims.
To address the issue of domestic violence, half of the surveyed officers suggested that increased awareness and counseling involving community leaders would be beneficial. Other proposals included personal visits to victims and establishing various support systems for women in violent situations.
The research ultimately reveals a troubling disconnect between Fiji’s formal policy on domestic violence and the practices implemented by police officers on the ground, suggesting a need for more robust training and reform in handling such cases. The authors propose that strategies must adapt to ensure the protection and fair treatment of women who are victims of domestic violence.
In their recommendations, the researchers stress the importance of including female leadership in community processes, ensuring women victims have a voice in resolution meetings, increasing the involvement of female officers in handling domestic violence cases, and enforcing adherence to standard operating procedures concerning domestic violence more strictly.
These findings highlight an urgent need for reforms within the Fiji Police Force to improve the handling of domestic violence cases and protect victims effectively.