Fifty women from communities in Nacodreudreu, Nakasa, Dreketi and Wailevu in Cakaudrove have completed a week-long awareness programme focused on gender, violence against women and girls, and human rights.

The sessions were conducted from August 3 to 7 and were facilitated by Ba Women’s Crisis Centre Counsellor Advocate Litia Waqavatu and Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre Counsellor Advocate Elina Cagilaba.

The programme was designed to improve participants’ understanding of gender issues, violence against women and girls, and women’s human rights, while building their confidence to respond to violence and promote equality in their communities.

Participants examined gender roles and stereotypes, various forms of violence against women and girls and the effects of violence on individuals, families and communities. Discussions also focused on human rights and practical ways women can help create safer communities.

The training is part of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre’s ongoing work to build a network of community advocates committed to preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls.

The centre conducts similar training and awareness programmes across Fiji, equipping women and communities with knowledge and skills to promote women’s human rights and prevent violence.

Its training module is also used in programmes across the Pacific, with content adapted to reflect the needs and circumstances of individual communities.