A renewed call for men and boys to take responsibility for ending violence against women and girls was issued in Parliament yesterday, with Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua saying the country cannot afford complacency during the 16 Days of Activism.
“Every woman and girl deserves to be safe, respected and protected, both online and offline,” he said.
Mr Naivalurua used the opening of his statement to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to tackling gender-based violence, describing it as a national duty that demanded action from all sectors of society.
“My ministry remains committed to strengthening laws, supporting survivors, and ensuring those who cause harm are held accountable.”
He urged male leaders, fathers, youth groups, and communities to step forward.
“I call on all of us, especially men and boys, to stand together against violence against women and girls.”
“By uniting our voices and taking meaningful action, we can end violence and build a safer and more respectful future.”
The minister said stronger protection systems, improved frontline responses and better prevention work were priorities, adding that online abuse and digital harassment were now key forms of gendered violence that required attention.
While he later moved on to provide an update on Fiji’s work toward signing the UN Convention against Cybercrime, Mr Naivalurua stressed that safety for women and girls remained central to policing reforms.
“We continue to strengthen our institutions so that every woman and girl in Fiji can live free from violence.”
