Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has made a strong appeal for unity and prompt action as the nation observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Kiran highlighted the alarming levels of violence that women face in Fiji, emphasizing the urgent need for community engagement and support for survivors.
At the launch of this year’s campaign, themed “From Prevention to Justice, Ending Violence, Impunity Against Women and Girls in All Spaces,” Kiran stressed that a collective effort from every Fijian, along with the cooperation of various institutions, is essential to combat this crisis. The minister revealed a shocking statistic: two out of three women in Fiji have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner, ranking the country among the highest globally for such incidents.
Kiran urged all Fijians to take action by supporting survivors, promoting the reporting of abuse, and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of whether the violence occurs in homes or online. She declared, “This is not just a slogan—it’s a plea to act.”
Moreover, the Minister drew attention to the government’s National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (2023–2028), which serves as a strategic framework aimed at addressing this pressing issue comprehensively. Key initiatives of this plan include enhancing reporting mechanisms, providing improved professional services for survivors, and tackling technology-facilitated abuses, such as cyberbullying and image-based violence.
The current 16 Days of Activism is framed as more than just a campaign; it represents a vital call to action that connects the fight against violence toward women with broader human rights advocacy. The government is actively encouraging faith groups, workplaces, schools, and local communities to participate in this movement, inviting them to show their support by wearing purple.
Fiji’s dedication to addressing GBV stands as a hopeful sign for the future. The ongoing emphasis on raising awareness and implementing actionable change indicates a societal shift towards fostering safety, respect, and support for women and girls, which is vital for creating a more equitable and secure environment for all citizens.