Legal literacy is vital, says Dr Luveni

Legal literacy in Fiji's rural communities is important so people can have a clear understanding of the laws protecting human rights and accessing justice, says Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni.

“Fiji is currently going through legal reforms to inculcate greater protection of women and children, as such legal literacy trainings are important in raising awareness and educating in particular women, about existing laws and accessing those legal services for protection of their rights,” said Luveni.

Luveni said communities learn about services they can access in terms of addressing domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, accessing counseling services in marriage and family relations.

She said the training complements the Zero Tolerance Violence Free Community Campaign where community leaders, women and youth leaders and religious organisations all work together with relevant agencies, in creating violence free communities.

The trainings are facilitated by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, Director of the Public Prosecution (DPP’s Office), Legal Aid Commission and Judicial Department.

Villages that have already been trained in legal literacy this year are Mualevu village in Lau, Qaranivai in Macuata, villages in Rakiraki district, Muanikoso women’s group, Nayavu in Wainibuka, Savudrodro in Cakaudrove along with villages in Serua, Nadroga and Navua.

By Mereani Gonedua