Technology-facilitated gender-based violence a growing concern

IN Fiji, Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) is a growing concern.

To commemorate International Women’s Day, a roundtable discussion organised by Women in Media Fiji brought together government and non-government organisations.

The speakers included acting Online Safety commissioner Tajeshwari Devi, fem Linkpacific executive director Fay Volatabu and Department of Women’s Reijieli Mawa.

The panelists highlighted the importance of safe homes for survivors and psychosocial support and counselling and the need for a multifaceted approach, including engaging with stakeholders like the media, to address TFGBV.

Ms Devi says they face challenges in dealing with TFGBV cases, particularly when abusers control the devices, and the victims are hesitant to report the matter to the police.

“I’m thankful to some women who come to us and report about these matters and the fact the most serious concerns in regard to TFGBV, is when the devices are controlled by the partners,” Ms Devi said.

“One of the cases was when she was just reporting through email and wasn’t able to reach out from her phone because her device as being controlled by the partner.”

She adds they were working closely with the Fiji Police Force on online abuse cases, obtaining official consent from victims before sharing information.

FemLink Pacific executive director Fay Volatabu emphasised the importance of reaching out for help and that those facing abuse feel supported in reporting it.

Ms Volatabu adds in an age where technology plays a part in violence, particularly towards women, there is a need for a collective approach to online safety.

WIM Fiji president Rosi Doviverata says there is a the need to create a safe space in newsrooms for women, particularly in light of cyberbullying and online safety concerns.

She adds by prioritising online safety, journalists can foster a more inclusive respectful environment.

The panelists also included speakers from other Pacific islands via Zoom including Women in Media PNG Belinda Kora and WIM Solomon Islands president Georgina Keke.

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Picture : MEDICAL SERVICES PACIFIC FACEBOOK PAGE Women at Sawakasa Village pose for a photo during the International Women’s Day celebration.

Picture: SOPHIE RALULU Executive director of Femlinkpacific Fay Volatabu (right), acting commissioner for the Online Safety Commission Tajeshwari Devi with Ministry of Women rep Raijeli Mawa during the Women in Media International Women’s Day celebration in Suva.

Picture: SOPHIE RALULU Members of the Women in Media at the International Women’s Day celebration in Suva last Thursday.