Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has highlighted the significant economic and emotional toll of domestic violence, estimating its annual cost at approximately $300 million – representing around 7% of Fiji’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The figure includes costs related to medical care, law enforcement, legal proceedings, and a range of government services involved in responding to and preventing domestic violence.

In a recent statement, Minister Kiran noted that beyond the financial burden, domestic violence leaves deep emotional scars on victims and their families.

“There is grief, fear, and emotional scarring for life – not only for the victims but also for other family members, particularly children who witness and experience the trauma,” she said.

Minister Kiran’s remarks reinforce the need for coordinated national strategies to combat gender-based violence, including prevention, legal protection, and survivor support.