Domestic violence remains an issue of concern in Fiji and more work needs to be done to ensure that the Domestic Violence Decree is effectively implemented.
Former High Court Judge, Nazhat Shameem said while huge steps have been taken in the recent past to implement the Domestic Violence and Crimes Decrees, the fact remains that historically domestic violence has been under-reported.
Shameem said around the world, this has been the trend, due to forced reconciliation and institutionalized sexism.
However she said the good news is that the decree is in effect and the people of the country and all those involved in the legal system should ensure that it is properly implemented for the benefit of everyone.
She said this was also highlighted by a High Court Judge in a recent case.
Shameem said the women's NGOs should also play an active role in the implementation of the decree to protect the victims of domestic violence.
Meanwhile the Fiji Women’s Crisis Center revealed today that it has recorded an increase in the number of domestic violence cases for the months of January and February this year compared to last year.
Deputy Coordinator, Edwina Kotoisuva said they attended to 167 cases this year compared to 154 new domestic violence cases for the same period last year.
She said the Police had recorded 15 cases in January and February last year and according to them this had decreased this year.
Kotoisuva said people should never lose sight of the fact that there are still many obstacles women face on a daily basis and violence is just one of them.
She said the severity of violence is something that should not be taken lightly and the community as a whole needs to get involved.
Kotoisuva said it is important that when women want to access justice, they are able to do so through a system that is supportive and sensitive.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
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