Domestic violence is a malignant force that not only scars its immediate victims but also darkens the prospects of our society’s future.

In Fiji, recent data from the Women’s Crisis Centre is deeply troubling.

Between January and August 2023, there were 500 reported cases of violence against women and children, with domestic violence accounting for a staggering 350 of them.

These statistics are not just cold figures; they represent human lives forever marred, and they cast doubt on the essence of our shared humanity.

Despite the tireless efforts of the government, church leaders, village authorities, police, and numerous human rights organisations, domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in our communities.

Its gravity cannot be overstated. Beyond the physical harm it inflicts, it leaves emotional and psychological scars, especially on children who witness or endure it.

Research consistently reveals that children exposed to domestic violence face long-lasting consequences.

The trauma casts a shadow over their lives, impacting their emotional well-being, social interactions, and overall development.

They may grow up with distorted perceptions of healthy relationships, perpetuating the cycle of violence and skewed worldviews.

A recent incident in Narewa, Nadi, serves as a painful reminder.

The alleged incident underscores the urgency of the issue: it is a situation where children may lose the comfort and love only parents can provide, compounding their existing losses.

Fiji is not isolated in grappling with this crisis. Globally, domestic violence is a grave concern, disproportionately affecting women and children.

The United Nations reports that one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence, often at the hands of an intimate partner.

Fiji’s struggle with domestic violence reflects a broader global epidemic.

But there is hope. Confronting this crisis begins with acknowledging that we are our worst enemies when we turn a blind eye to such violence.

The fight against domestic violence is not just about aiding victims; it is about preserving the very essence of our humanity.

It is a call to create a safe environment for children to grow, learn, and flourish without the shadow of violence.

Fiji, like many nations, is actively addressing domestic violence. Laws and policies are being strengthened, awareness campaigns launched, and support systems for survivors expanded.

However, it is a collective responsibility that demands the active participation of individuals, communities, and institutions.

Domestic violence poses a grave threat to our humanity, and our silence in the face of these atrocities stains our collective conscience.

We must stand unwavering, vigilant, and empathetic to end this cycle of violence.

In doing so, we can ensure that our children inherit a world where love, respect, and peace prevail over fear and abuse.

Only then can we claim victory over the enemy within and fulfil the promise of a brighter, more harmonious future for all.

Feedback: naisak@fijisun.com.fj