Gender based violence is a serious problem in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
And the impact is felt at multiple levels of society.
PNG High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Fred Yakasa said this when addressing a gathering in Honiara this week to mark 16 days of activism on gender based violence.
He urged to Solomon Islands Government to commit to address this issue.
Yakasa said this year’s theme; “You, me Stan Tugeda fo Endim Vaelens” couldn’t be more appropriate.
Gender based violence is multi-faceted hence wears many faces.
“This is evident in the many stories shared by women through the Family Health and Safety Study undertaken in 2008 and 2009 in Solomon Islands.”
He said it is therefore fitting that we should all be united in this manner to stand together against violence.
“The more unified we are, the stronger we are as a force to fight against this scourge.
“Everyone needs to feel secure and protected. Women, and children, people living with disability, the old aged need not have fear for their safety and protection in whatever form, circumstances and context they are in.
“We must therefore seize this moment as never before to raise our voice against this shameful behaviour which is also a serious violation of our human rights.”
“We do not want to see gender violence leaving its ugly imprints in our homes. There must be zero tolerance for this inhumane behaviour.
“The responsibility to act hangs squarely on our shoulders and so it is very encouraging to see the participation of various sectors and organizations yesterday.”
Being present at the occasion were members of the diplomatic corp, government officials, and various women organisations in the country.