Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Hon. Sashi Kiran has issued a passionate plea in Parliament today for national solidarity in the fight against gender-based violence, highlighting a growing crisis that continues to claim lives and destroy families across Fiji.
In her ministerial statement, she acknowledged the Thursdays in Black campaign, a global initiative that encourages people to wear black every Thursday in solidarity with survivors of rape and violence.
“By wearing black, we amplify the voices of survivors, challenge the culture of silence, and call for a world free from violence, fear, and discrimination,” she told Parliament.
Ms Kiran revealed that in 2025 alone, four women and one man have lost their lives to intimate partner violence in Fiji,
She further highlighted alarming statistics from the Fiji Police Force’s June 2025 crime report, showing a 28% rise in sexual offences, with 60% of victims being under 18.
Crimes against children have increased by 8%, with over half involving sexual abuse and nearly a quarter of the offences committed within family homes.
“Domestic violence remains widespread, and in most cases, it is perpetrated by those closest to the victims.”
She thanked fellow Members of Parliament for wearing black or the awareness pin, symbolising unity in the fight against violence.
“Every life lost is one too many. We must stand together and demand change — in our laws, in our homes, and in our hearts,” she urged.
