One hundred men from Rewa and Cakaudrove have completed the Male Advocacy for Women’s Human Rights training conducted by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre this year.
FWCC says this initiative aims to cultivate a cadre of community advocates committed to ending all forms of violence against women, girls, and children, ending discrimination and promoting gender equality.
They says in April, week-long awareness sessions were held for 40 men in Naviavia, Wailevu West, Cakaudrove while two separate training sessions took place in Rewa this year - one for 23 men from three villages in the Toga district and another for 40 men in the village of Namakala, located on the outskirts of Lami.
FWCC says awareness sessions are held first with women in these areas before the men, as it is these women who will play a key role in holding the men accountable.
They say in follow-up focus group discussions conducted by the FWCC’s community education team, both women and men shared their experiences regarding changes in their lives.
The Centre says many women reported that their husbands are now helping with housework and are showing greater understanding.
They say one man shared that he now accompanies his wife when she goes fishing and tries to have dinner ready for her when she returns, especially on the days she goes out to sea alone.
FWCC Coordinator Shamima Ali says the male advocacy training promotes introspection and encourages men to reflect on issues of gender equality and women’s human rights in all areas of their lives, including at home, in the community, in traditional settings, and at work.
She says this work involves engaging men in efforts to eliminate violence against women from a rights-based approach.
Ali adds a key element is for these men to first change their own behavior and thinking towards women and girls before they can influence other men.
