Rising Calls for Help: Fiji Faces Domestic Violence Crisis

In Fiji, the National Domestic Violence Helpline is experiencing an alarming increase in calls from women seeking urgently needed support amidst rising cases of coercive control and financial abuse. Many victims report being trapped in difficult situations that prevent them from accessing necessary medical and legal services. The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection has highlighted a significant strain on their toll-free helpline, 1560, as they address cases of emotional, physical, and verbal abuse perpetrated by partners, relatives, and landlords.

Minister Sashi Kiran emphasized that while not all cases result in police or hospital intervention, the helpline is crucial for providing immediate counseling through partnerships with organizations like the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre. Data indicates that the Central Division has the highest number of reports, predominantly from women seeking help regarding domestic violence.

This surge in calls is underscored by broader statistics revealing two-thirds of women in Fiji have faced intimate partner violence, a situation exacerbated by systemic issues that silence victims and hinder their recovery. Recent events, including tragic fatalities linked to domestic violence, have sparked renewed calls for community action and increased awareness.

Experts have noted that without effective intervention and societal change, patterns of violence will persist through generations. Minister Kiran advocates for the collection of detailed data on domestic violence incidents, allowing for more targeted interventions to support victims effectively. There’s a strong emphasis on reaching out to rural and isolated communities to ensure that all women have access to the vital services they need.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding these issues reflects a growing consensus that significant change is required to combat domestic violence in Fiji. The Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls, launched in June 2023, represents a collaborative effort toward establishing safe, respectful, and non-violent environments. There is hope that through strengthening community support and educational programs, Fiji can transform its approach to addressing domestic violence, fostering a safer future for women and children across the nation.