21 Nov 2016

Anti-domestic violence message getting through to police

From , 6:04 am on 21 November 2016

The Fiji Women's Crisis Centre says a series of workshops to teach the region's police officers about the seriousness of domestic violence is starting to have a positive effect.

The centre concluded its fourth workshop last week with 30 police officers from 11 Pacific countries.

Its coordinator, Shamima Ali, says there is a problem in many countries of police not taking domestic violence seriously and, in some cases, subjecting victims to further degradation.

Ms Ali told Jamie Tahana that after a lot of effort, police in the region are starting to change their attitudes to domestic violence, and the courses are helping.

Fiji Women Crisis Centre Co-ordinator Shamima Ali shares her extensive experience and knowledge from working to end violence against women and girls.

Shamima Ali says attitudes towards women need to be changed. Photo: Supplied / UN Women