Domestic violence remains the most prevalent form of violence reported to the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and its branches, with new counselling statistics revealing hundreds of women and children continue to seek help for abuse and violence across the country.
Between January and May 2026, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) and its branches recorded 829 new cases, of which 558 involved domestic violence. The Centre also conducted 1,023 repeat counselling sessions for survivors of domestic violence, highlighting the ongoing impact of abuse and the need for long-term support.
The figures also include seven new rape cases, nine child rape cases, 10 cases of child sexual abuse, six sexual assault cases, five sexual harassment cases, two attempted rape cases and 36 cases involving physical, verbal and emotional abuse of children.
FWCC Coordinator Shamima Ali said the statistics represent real people seeking safety, support and justice.
“Behind every statistic is a survivor seeking safety, justice and support,” Ali said.
“The high number of repeat counselling sessions underscores the reality that recovery from violence is not immediate and often requires ongoing professional counselling and assistance.”
Ali said the continued dominance of domestic violence cases reflects both the scale of the problem and shortcomings in the protection of survivors.
“Domestic violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in Fiji. These figures represent women and children who are living with violence, fear and trauma in their own homes.”
The FWCC also raised concerns about the enforcement of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, saying many women continue to feel unsafe despite obtaining legal protection.
“We continue to receive reports from women who have obtained Domestic Violence Restraining Orders but remain fearful because breaches are not always responded to swiftly. A protection order is only meaningful if it is enforced.”
Ali said domestic violence must be treated as a serious criminal matter rather than a private family issue.
“When a woman reports violence, she is asking for protection. Delays in responding to complaints or breaches of protection orders can place survivors and their children at even greater risk.”
“A Domestic Violence Restraining Order is often the only safeguard standing between a survivor and further violence. Failure to enforce these orders sends the wrong message to perpetrators and leaves women vulnerable.”
She also called for police responses to be timely, survivor-centred and free from gender bias.
“There is impunity when survivors feel re-victimized by the police process,” Ali said.
“We still have survivors telling us stories of police failing to record complaints, urging reconciliation with the perpetrator, or minimizing the violence.”
Ali urged stronger accountability across institutions and greater investment in prevention and support services.
“Ending violence against women requires a coordinated national response. Communities, faith-based organizations, government agencies and law enforcement all have a responsibility to ensure that women and children can live free from violence and fear.”
The FWCC and its branches continue to provide confidential counselling, advocacy and support services throughout Fiji. The National Domestic Violence Helpline, 1560, remains available 24 hours a day and is free to call from any network.
