Women and girls with disabilities across the Pacific region are facing significant trauma due to dismissive remarks and online harassment. Sainimili Tawake, the Chief Executive of the Pacific Disability Forum, stresses that the silence and stigma surrounding critical issues, particularly those related to sexual and reproductive health, are major barriers to addressing abuse and can deter survivors from coming forward.
Tawake highlights the challenges victims face when seeking justice, noting that the fear of reporting is often heightened by the fact that perpetrators are commonly individuals they know and trust, such as family members or partners. This profound betrayal fosters a culture of silence that underscores the urgent need for open dialogues on these matters.
Moreover, Tawake points out that harmful comments are frequently downplayed as jokes or light-hearted banter, despite the serious emotional and psychological impact they have on victims. In many Pacific communities, sexual health issues are often neglected or trivialized, which allows abuse to continue unchecked.
With the increasing prevalence of technology, Tawake warns that the harassment and exploitation of vulnerable groups, including women and girls with disabilities, are escalating, resulting in more profound psychological trauma. She emphasizes the necessity for a collaborative approach that includes governments, civil society, technology experts, and data agencies to break the silence, protect survivors, and create a safer online environment for all.
This initiative is a crucial step towards tackling these urgent issues, promoting an atmosphere where survivors feel empowered to share their experiences and seek the justice they deserve. Collaborative efforts are vital in establishing a supportive community capable of effectively addressing abuse and stigma against women and girls with disabilities throughout the Pacific region. This ongoing dialogue presents hope for a future where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.