THE breakdown of traditional family roles and the failure of men to uphold their responsibilities as protectors are at the heart of rising violence against women and girls in the Pacific, says reigning Miss Pacific Islands, Litara Loma Leilani Ieremia-Allan.
Addressing contestants during their first engagement in Nadi on Monday, Ms Ieremia-Allan identified sexual offences as one of the most pressing issues facing the region today. Drawing from her Samoan heritage, she highlighted the concept of Feagaiga, the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.
“Often, if we look back at cultural stories of old, there is a sacredness between a brother and a sister,” she said.
“A Samoan proverb says the sister is the apple or pupil of the brother’s eye, meaning the brother’s role is to protect her.”
She warned that current statistics, which show many perpetrators are family members, reflect a departure from these values.
“When families break down, the country starts to break down.
“We see substance abuse, youth unemployment, and more. When protectors fulfil their roles, our young girls and women can truly soar.”
She stressed restoring respect and protection within the family.
