17 Sep 2015

Samoa churches help combat violence against women

3:50 pm on 17 September 2015

Samoa's Council of Churches is working with UNESCO and UN Women on a brochure detailing 16 ways to end violence against women, using biblical text.

The recently launched report on the state of human rights in Samoa revealed 46 percent of women, from ages of 15 to 49, have experienced some form of gender based violence.

This includes physical, mental and verbal abuse.

Suisala Mele Maualaivao of UN Women says the agency has addressed the issue but acceptance and change in the communities will not happen without the support of faith based organisations.

Etienne Clement UNESCO Director Pacific

Etienne Clement UNESCO Director Pacific Photo: UNESCO

UNESCO's Etienne Clement says violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights.

He says church leaders and faith based agencies can help with messages on love and respect for women.