Women in Melanesia including Fiji are victims of high levels of domestic and sexual violence.

This was revealed in a report launched today by the Australian government’s Minister Counselor for Pacific Development Cooperation Judith Robinson in Suva today.

The AUSAID commissioned report highlighted that women in Fiji are subject to physical, emotional, psychological and economic abuse, sexual assault and harassment, commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Robinson while launching the report said violence against women remained an under-reported crime throughout the world, including Fiji.

She praised the work of the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre saying the organization plays a critical role in galvanizing public opinion and action around violence against women in Fiji and the region.

The report provides a framework to address violence against women by increasing women's access to justice and support services and changing attitudes and practices that encourage and condone violence.