Violence against women, both in private and public domains, has surged, highlighting the critical nature of the issue during the Markets for Change (M4C) 16 Days of Activism event at the Nausori market. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, expressed her sorrow regarding a recent domestic violence death, describing these incidents as painful reminders of the urgent need for action against gender-based violence.
Addressing market vendors, Kiran noted that markets often serve as barometers for abuse. She pointed out that women’s threats are not limited to their homes; they face criticism from patrons, intimidation from other vendors, and a notable increase in online harassment, including negative comments and shaming posts from dissatisfied customers. Additionally, deceptive scams targeting women utilizing mobile payment systems for their transactions have become increasingly frequent.
Kiran stressed that “women’s safety is an economic issue,” emphasizing that threats against women extend into digital spaces, manifesting through social media and various online harassment forms. Her statements reflect a broader understanding of how these problems impact women’s economic participation and security.
In concluding her speech, Kiran called for a united effort among market managers, law enforcement, civil society, and vendor groups to foster safer and more supportive environments for women in the marketplace. This rallying cry signifies an increasing awareness of the necessity for community involvement in combating violence against women and enhancing safety in both physical and digital landscapes. Such collaborative efforts highlight a hopeful outlook for creating lasting change and ensuring a safer future for women across all platforms.