In a somber revelation during her ministerial statement to Parliament, Hon. Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection of Fiji, reported that nine women have tragically lost their lives due to intimate partner violence in the first nine months of this year. Ms. Kiran emphasized that these figures represent more than just statistics, framing them as the heart-wrenching loss of mothers, daughters, and sisters—lives ended far too soon due to violence that could have been averted.
The Minister pointed to the staggering economic toll gender-based violence exacts on Fiji, estimating an annual loss of around $300 million. This figure encompasses the costs associated with lost productivity, medical expenses, legal proceedings, and the long-term social repercussions of such violence. Kiran stated, “Violence against women and girls is not just a social issue; it is a governance and economic crisis,” shedding light on the multifaceted impact of domestic violence within the nation’s fabric.
Alarmingly, Fiji has one of the highest rates of violence against women globally, with research indicating that two out of every three Fijian women may face physical or sexual violence in their lifetimes. In response to this dire situation, the Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls (2023–2028) was approved by the government in May and launched in June 2023. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first national, prevention-focused framework of its kind in the Pacific, aiming to preempt instances of violence before they escalate.
“This is a painful reality we must confront, and I call on every Fijian to join in a collective commitment to zero tolerance of all forms of violence,” Ms. Kiran stressed. Her address highlighted the need for a collaborative approach involving various government ministries, civil society, traditional structures, and faith-based groups to catalyze long-term, systemic change.
Kiran urged parliamentarians to take this message back to their communities, underlining that shared responsibility is key to combatting this pervasive issue. The ongoing dialogue reflects a commitment to fostering an environment where respect, safety, and support for victims of domestic violence are paramount. Through initiatives like community prevention committees and awareness campaigns, there is a hopeful trajectory towards diminishing violence in Fiji and building a future where every home stands as a sanctuary free from harm.