By Loretta B Manele

Gender-based violence is not a private issue, it’s a public crisis that has ripple effects that run through families, workplaces and entire communities.

Tristan Armstrong, Australian High Commission’s Development Counsellor raised this at the SIWINN’s (Solomon Islands Women in Nius Network) Breakfast Event at the Heritage Park Hotel yesterday.

He stressed that gender-based violence comes in many forms whether it is physical, emotional, sexual and economic and is rooted in unequal power dynamics, harmful gender norms and systemic inequalities.

Armstrong said statistics of gender-based violence are staggering given that across the globe, one in three women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime.

He mentioned that men and boys can also be victims of gender-based violence particularly in cultures where rigid stereotypes create silence and stigma.

Armstrong said gender-based violence destabilises communities, perpetuating cycles of fear, distrust and trauma.

“Economically, it costs billions annually in healthcare, lost productivity and legal services. Socially, it diminishes us all by normalising inequality and injustice”

Moreover, Armstrong said the media plays a vital role in combatting gender-based violence by raising awareness, challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting gender equality.

“Responsible reporting and advocacy campaigns educate the public, amplify survivors’ voices and foster a culture of accountability and change”

Armstrong said Australia remains the key partner in Solomon Islands and the only development partner in gender equality efforts.

He added that over the course of 12 years from 2012 to 2024, Australia has invested 300 million SBD dollars to support gender equality in Solomon Islands through bilateral and regional funding.

Armstrong said this work reminds us that ending gender-based violence requires all of us; individuals, families, businesses and governments to work together.

He pointed out that we must also remember that prevention is as important as response.

“Every time we challenge a sexist joke, every time we stand up for someone who feels unsafe, every time we model healthy respectful relationships, we are contributing to a culture where violence has no place”

Armstrong said as we gather here today, lets applaud the resilience, dedication and courage of those fighting to end it.