There exists a significant “conspiracy of silence” that often protects the abuser rather than the victim of abuse, according to Shamima Ali, coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre. In a recent interview, she emphasized that victims are frequently discouraged from reporting incidents due to pressure from family members and religious authorities.
Ms. Ali explained, “We refer to it as the conspiracy of silence because there is a collective effort to convince the woman not to report her husband to the authorities.” She highlighted that arguments centered around the husband being the “breadwinner” contribute to this issue, with people turning a blind eye to the severity of domestic violence.
This troubling narrative is sometimes echoed even by law enforcement, who may ask the woman if she truly wants to complain about her husband, implying the potential loss of financial support. Ms. Ali stated that victims face immense pressure from various community figures—including family and religious leaders—to keep silent and maintain familial bonds.
Despite the establishment of organizations aimed at raising awareness and providing support for women, Ms. Ali noted that this conspiracy of silence remains deeply entrenched in many communities. “While there are changes happening as some organizations begin to listen and support women’s choices, the overall conspiracy of silence is still very much alive,” she remarked.
She also pointed out that in cases of sexual violence, including rape and child abuse, the situation is even more complex and intense. Often, the abusers are people in positions of trust, such as fathers and relatives. “Society tends to protect the perpetrator rather than the victim. Our focus should be on safeguarding the victim-survivor,” she concluded.