Final Evaluation: Sensitizing the Stakeholders and Communities involved in Prevention of Violence against Women and Girls in Fiji (Fiji)

Location: Tailevu Province, Fiji

Grantee partner: Medical Services Pacific (MSP)

Grant period: October 2022 – September 2025

Grant amount: $415,592

Authors/editors: Dr. Robyn Drysdale

Evaluation year: 2026

From October 2022 to September 2025, Medical Services Pacific (MSP) implemented an initiative in Tailevu Province, Fiji, aimed at promoting and protecting human rights by strengthening prevention of violence against women and girls. The initiative reached women and girls affected by intimate partner violence, including a significant proportion of 1,468 indigenous women and girls, and combined community sensitization, engagement of men, boys and youth leaders, and partnerships with traditional and faith‑based leaders to challenge harmful norms. It further aimed to establish Gate Keeper Committees and Zero‑Tolerance Violence‑Free Communities.

• Help-seeking knowledge increased from 45% at baseline to 71% at endline, help seeking confidence rose from 49% to 78%, alongside increased willingness to intervene when harm is witnessed (97%).
• 63% of respondents reported improved communication at home and 58% reported reduced household conflict, with qualitative evidence confirming calmer homes and more respectful relationships.
• Acceptance of corporal punishment declined substantially from 41% to 18%, reduced tolerance for violence within families.
• Police independently confirmed a reduction in domestic violence and child abuse cases in project communities, alongside qualitative accounts from women, men, and youth reporting reduced violence, improved communication, and safer household environments.
• Community led safety mechanisms—including bylaws, child curfews, safety bells, patrols, and active Gate Keeper Committees—were established in multiple villages and continue independently, strengthening sustainability and local ownership.

The evaluation concludes that the initiative was effective in generating sustained improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to violence prevention, contributing to safer households and stronger community accountability while highlighting the importance of continued engagement to consolidate long‑term change.

“The village is in unison to protect women/girls from violence" - Men’s Focus Group Discussion, Qelekuro