Nearly 70 percent of the women in Kiribati experience abuse by their husbands, close relatives and others.
This was revealed in a recent study conducted by the Ministry of Internal and Social Welfare.
The report says women were beaten, threatened, and even raped and some rapists are reported to be cousins and close relatives.
Many of the crimes happened at home, according to the report.
The report said 19 percent of the victims are young girls under 15 years old.
Women's organizations, churches and other concerned bodies have challenged the government to remedy these problems.
