9 Aug 2017

Lack of counselling in Solomons 'perpetuates violence'

10:19 am on 9 August 2017

An Anglican nun working with victims of violence in Solomon Islands says the lack of adequate trauma counselling is helping perpetuate violence.

Solomon Islanders mark White Ribbon Day in Honiara on Friday 25th November, 2016. This year was the first time local businesses joined the march in support of ending violence against women.

Solomon Islanders marking White Ribbon Day in Honiara. Photo: Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry

A peacebuilding mission left the country in June but many grievances mostly over land and natural resources remain unresolved after the ethnic conflict 14 years ago.

Sister Doreen runs a refuge for women and children trying to escape violence in the home and also works with victims of the violent conflict.

She said more counselling was needed for victims particularly children.

"Because they grow up and if the anger is still there they continue with the violent attitudes. Children who have seen relatives who have been shot by militants. Girls who have been sexually abused by perpetrators. I talked to a lot of children who have been through a lot and some of them are already married but the fear is still there."

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