The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) has marked a significant achievement this year, with 100 men from Rewa and Cakaudrove completing its Male Advocacy for Women’s Human Rights Program.
FWCC says growing interest in the training shows a wider acceptance in Fiji that preventing violence against women and girls requires men to challenge harmful gender norms and take responsibility for their behaviour.
Established in 2002, the program is a Pacific-designed model rooted in feminist principles and accountability to women.
The program requires the centre to consult women in each community to ensure their voices guide the process.
Only after these discussions does training for men begin.
Over one week, participants explored the root causes of violence, power and control, patriarchy, socialisation, rape myths, victim-blaming and ideas about respect, equality, and shared responsibility.
Assessments from the 2025 training cycle indicate encouraging behavioural changes.
Women in several villages reported that their partners are sharing household tasks, communicating better, and becoming more aware of the pressure women face.
Some men have begun challenging sexist jokes and harmful peer behaviour, while others are making visible changes at home.
One participant in Rewa now joins his wife on her fishing trips and prepares dinner for her return.
FWCC Co-ordinator Shamima Ali says these developments reflect the heart of the program.
“We are seeing men reflect deeply on their roles and take genuine steps to change their behaviour,” she said.
“Prevention is possible when men listen to women, respect women’s rights, and commit to building homes and communities grounded in equality and non-violence.”
The program also addressed mental health, noting that harmful ideas about masculinity often stop men from expressing vulnerability.
FWCC urges government agencies, community leaders and partners to support evidence-based male-engagement work, and encourages men across Fiji to take active roles in promoting equality and respectful behaviour.
