The global initiative known as the “16 Days of Activism” aims to eliminate violence against women and children, highlighting the importance of public education, according to Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. Minister Tabuya emphasized alarming statistics indicating that approximately 90 percent of violence perpetrators are family members or relatives of the victims, suggesting a deeply entrenched cycle of abuse within communities.
To combat this issue, she advocates for open discussions led by community leaders, schools, and families to address the topic of violence. Fiji faces one of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the Pacific region, with studies revealing that over 60 percent of women may experience some form of violence in their lifetime.
In response to this crisis, the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection is actively partnering with various stakeholders to host workshops, community conversations, and advocacy programs aimed at empowering victims and educating potential offenders. This year’s campaign theme is “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Children,” which serves as a powerful call to action for eradicating violence at all levels of society.
The concerted efforts within this campaign not only seek to raise awareness but also aim to foster a supportive environment that promotes healing and prevention. By engaging communities in these discussions, there is hope for breaking the cycle of violence and creating a safer future for women and children in Fiji.
In summary, the “16 Days of Activism” campaign is a pivotal opportunity for Fiji to combat family violence through community engagement and education, paving the way for long-term change and support for victims. It reflects a collective commitment to foster a culture of safety and respect.
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