The global initiative known as the ’16 Days of Activism’ aims to combat violence against women and children, offering a crucial platform for public education, according to Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya.
Minister Tabuya highlighted alarming statistics showing that approximately 90 percent of violence perpetrators are family members of the victims. She emphasized the importance of education in disrupting the cycle of abuse and called upon community leaders, schools, and families to engage in open dialogues about this pressing issue.
In the Pacific, Fiji has one of the highest rates of gender-based violence, with reports indicating that over 60 percent of women have faced some form of violence in their lives. In response, the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection is partnering with various organizations to conduct workshops, community discussions, and advocacy programs aimed at empowering victims and educating potential offenders.
This year’s campaign theme, “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Children,” serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to eradicate violence in all societal tiers.
The commitment to confronting and eliminating such violence gives hope for a future where women and children can live free from fear and harm. By fostering community support and facilitating open conversations, positive change can be achieved, creating a safer and more equitable environment for all.
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