There can be no progress when Fijian women and girls in all diversity live in cycles of violence, says Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Lynda Tabuya.
She said this during the launch of the National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls 2023-2028 supported by a $1 million commitment by the Coalition Government and $6m by the Australian Government.
She said violence against women and girls remained the most pervasive human rights violations in Fiji and this was exemplified by the recent tragic incidents where two women in Labasa lost their lives as a result of violence perpetrated by men in one month.
“The NAP centers on dismantling the culture of patriarchy and the pillars of gender inequality across all aspects of our society,” Ms Tabuya said.
“Today (Friday) we stand united in our unwavering dedication to creating a future where the aspirations of all Fijian women and girls are not only acknowledged but fully realised.”
The NAP makes Fiji the first Pacific Island Country and second in the world alongside Australia to develop and launch a whole-of government costed and evidence-based NAP, aimed at preventing gender-based violence.
Ms Tabuya said during the process, the Ministry engaged with 2188 Fijians across four divisions, including Lau and Rotuma.
