Male Advocates graduate Women’s Human Rights Training

Twenty male participants completed training to advocate for the elimination of violence against women. The Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC), together with the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, held Stage II of the Male Advocacy Women’s Human Rights Training from 11–15 January 2010.

The training aimed to increase understanding about men’s roles in preventing violence. Reverend Tevita Havea, General Secretary of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, was the guest of honour. He highlighted the role of religion in eliminating violence. “We, church leaders, have to admit that there is violence in every part of the societies in Tonga and we need to show our support to the centre’s work by using the prevention strategies in our missions in the communities,” said Havea.

“A lot of people quote scriptures and say that it is our culture – this is just an excuse to justify violence. Times have changed and our thinking has to change also.”

The lead trainer was an Australian expert in understanding men’s masculinities, Stephen Fisher, and was accompanied by Shamima Ali, the Coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and Chair of the Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women.

The training was funded by the AusAid Regional, and the AusAid Manager, Debbie Reschke, was the guest of Honour at the closing ceremony.

 After completing the training, participants said:

 “A lot of people quote scriptures and say that it is our culture – this is just an excuse to justify violence. Times have changed and our thinking has to change also.”

 “I thought I was the main breadwinner in the house. Now that I have factored in the real cost of all the housework and important duties, I realise that I am not the breadwinner at all.”

 “I look forward to sharing what I’ve learnt with my Kava Tonga group. Men often say put downs or bad things about women. Now I will challenge them.”

The workshop has provided participants with skills to effectively advocate for the elimination of violence against women.

Coordinator of the WCCC, ‘Ofa Guttenbeil-Likiliki, says that six men will be selected from the Stage II training to undergo a pilot of the regional Male Advocacy Handbook in March.