Parents were reminded that proper upbringing of their children will ensure the fulfillment of Fiji’s vision to create a violence free community.
This message has been emphasized by the Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni in regards to the 16 Days of Activism on the Elimination of Violence Campaign observed annually around the globe from November 25 to December 10.
Dr Luveni said violence against women and children is a behavioral act which is instilled from childhood.
“The behavior practised in early childhood carries on in their life as adults and parents. Therefore, we should bring up our daughters and sons right and then only we can create a violence free society. We should never turn blind eye to any acts of violence. We should confront it to break the cycle of violence,” Dr Luveni said.
In this regard, the Minister for Women reiterated the important role of mothers to nurture the development of their children.
“Women have the potential to make strong influence in overall development of their children. It has been proven that 99 per cent of the perpetrators are men so we need to target them to create a violence free community. The message of caring, respecting and understanding should be taught to children so they can continue to develop on this for the rest of their lives,” Dr Luveni said.
She urged Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) along with the faith-based organizations around Fiji to capitalise on 16 Days of Activism to raise awareness on the proper upbringing of children as a platform to create a non-violent society.
“As we commemorate the 16 Days of Activism on Eliminating Violence Against Women and Children, we should look inside our homes, communities and organizations to identify ways in which we can work together to create a peaceful environment for everyone,” Dr Luveni said.
“We also remember that there are those who suffer in silence and only when we work together as a nation we can destroy the roots of violence.”
She said the message for this year’s 16 Days of Activism Campaign -“From Peace in Home to Peace in the World” should continue to flourish in the hearts and minds of all Fijians.