Patriarchy is driving Fiji’s violence crisis, says FWCC

Patriarchy is driving Fiji’s violence crisis. That is the blunt warning from Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) Coordinator Shamima Ali, who says the country’s male-dominated systems are giving men power, protecting abusive behaviour, and pushing women and girls into constant danger.

Speaking at the opening of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence yesterday, Ms Ali said Fiji must stop pretending and finally admit that male power and male privilege are driving the country’s violence epidemic.

“We live in a male-dominated system,” she said.

“Men enjoy more privileges, they are given more power, and women have been pushed into becoming second-class citizens.”

Ms Ali said patriarchy shapes everything in Fiji — from Parliament to workplaces, homes, and relationships.

“Look at Parliament. How many women do you see? Look at corporate organisations. Men are the leaders everywhere. That is what patriarchy looks like,” she said.

She said this unequal system creates a dangerous imbalance:

• Men hold the power
• Women carry the burden

“Women work inside the home, outside the home, they raise children, they carry the double load. Men hardly do anything,” she said.

“Patriarchy gives men control over women. That is why rape, domestic violence, all of it is about power and control.”

She also highlighted that many young girls, especially within Indo-Fijian communities, are still being abused inside their own homes, protected by what she called the big men, the patriarchs of the family.

Ms Ali urged Government to stop relying on Australia, New Zealand and donors to fund prevention work and support services.

“We want Government to stop talking and start acting,” she said. “Put resources behind this. A proper budget. Women are dying.”