Solomon Islands continues to face some of the highest rates of violence against women and girls globally.
The concern was highlighted as the country joined the rest of the world to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8.
This year’s global theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” calls for urgent action to remove barriers to equal justice, including discriminatory laws, weak legal protections and harmful social norms that undermine the rights of women and girls.
Speaking during a press conference in Honiara on Sunday, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele acknowledged the important contributions Solomon Islands women continue to make in agriculture, business and leadership.
However, he said the country cannot ignore the serious issue of gender-based violence.
“Recent data ranking us as second highest in the world for domestic violence is not a statistic we can accept,” Mr Manele said.
He said the government is working to strengthen support systems for victims and expand protection services throughout the country.
“We are actively expanding the safety net referral system to our final provincial frontiers and have begun the legislative work for temporary special measures to bring more women into provincial leadership,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that the government’s efforts are being supported through partnerships with development partners and international organisations.
He acknowledged the support of the Solomon Islands Australia Community Partnerships program, which is currently funding more than 100 local projects across the provinces.
He also recognised the work of UN Women through its Markets for Change Phase 2 project aimed at improving safety for market vendors, as well as ongoing collaboration with UNICEF to protect children affected by domestic violence.
Mr Manele also made a direct appeal to men and boys across the country.
“I wish to address the men, the boys and specifically the husbands of our nation. Respect for your wife and your daughters is not a sign of weakness. It is the foundation of a strong family and a strong Solomon Islands,” he said.
“Real transformation starts at home. Let us stand together to protect and empower the women of our country.”
He concluded by acknowledging members of the media for their continued role in informing the public.
