Powerful women speak out on violence

Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ms Deborah Stokes, and First Lady Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill have launched  a book – Powerful Voices – and film -Harim Mi - featuring women speaking out on violence against women and girls in Papua New Guinea.

Produced by FHI 360 with Australia’s support, the book and film contain stories of 49 women from 10 communities in Western Highlands and Sandaun provinces. 

FHI360, in collaboration with other community based organisations, provided cameras and trained women to use digital photography to document their lives and speak out. Ms Stokes said the book and film present different community and services perspectives on stopping violence.

“They show how community action to end violence against women and girls can be taken when men and women stand together. They also illustrate the need for community actions to reduce violence against women and girls to be  supported by    effective action by the police and courts, as well as by the delivery of education and health services,” Ms Stokes said at the launch on Wednesday 18 February.

Ms Deborah Stokes, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, and First Lady Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill

 

Ms Babao-O’Neill said the film and book demonstrate the confidence and self-worth of empowered women.

“I am delighted to see the level of confidence and the courageous step these women have taken to share their stories and of the communities that are supporting and embracing this change. In Papua New Guinea, and indeed in many countries in the world, it is often difficult for a woman to talk about personal struggles and challenges. It is my hope that women across our country will gain strength and courage from the Powerful Voices in this book and the film. I thank the Australian Government, FHI360 and all those who have made this possible,” Ms Babao-O’Neill said.

The book and film are part of the Komuniti Lukautim Ol Meri initiative, involving 200,000 people in Sandaun and Western Highlands, which works to prevent and respond to violence through mobilizing communities, education, improving access to services and empowering women and girls. Australia has provided AU$2.8 million to this program through the Strongim Pipol Strongim Nesen program. 

Ms Stokes announced Australia would provide a further AU$2.5 million over three years for FHI360 to continue this work.

“Gender equality and women’s empowerment is a key priority in Australia’s engagement with Papua New Guinea. We recognise that one of the best ways to achieve stronger communities, societies and economies is to empower women and girls,” Ms Stokes said.

Australia will spend up to AU$55 million in PNG, through the Pacific Women Program, to enhance women’s voice in decision making and leadership; increase their economic opportunities; reduce family and sexual violence, and increase access to support services to women and girls and families can be strengthened.

Story and pictures courtesy of Australian Aid

(L-R) Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neil being welcomed by a women involved in the program

(L_R)  Ms Lynda Babao-O’Neill, two women from the program and Ms Deborah Stokes, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea,