10.2 Financial Pressures A number of studies in Samoa show that families with low incomes are more vulnerable to family violence. Furthermore, money was cited as a contributing factor by 10% of respondents who had ever been abused.124 Whilst the SFSS 2017 does not analyse whether lower income families are more at risk, it is possible to calculate from the SFHSS 2000 that the prevalence of family violence in low income households was 58% of all respondents within that demographic, compared to 45% in middle income households and 38% in high income households. This does indeed suggest there is a correlation between income and family violence and that money worries may indeed be a trigger. Family violence is worsened in Samoa by cultural practices emanating from cultural and church obligations. “Financial pressures associated with church contributions and family obligations are unique underlying causes of family violence in Samoa.” Justice Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala-Warren, reported in Inquiry document 82 The concept of fa’alavelave is any event that interrupts the daily routine and includes weddings, funerals, matai title ceremonies, building openings, special birthdays and more. During these events contributions are required from those immediately and indirectly involved. It is an obligation which encourages the sense of community and mutual respect and protection, upon which Samoan society is founded. However, this practice has evolved over time, becoming competitive,125 a form of social boasting and increasingly a financial strain on many families. In many cases a family will have to contribute thousands for a funeral and it is not uncommon to have to take out a bank loan or sell off family assets to meet these obligations. “Misunderstanding of Fa’asamoa values and practices can lead to or be a risk factor for violence against women. Obligations to fa’alavelave have changed over time. The monetary amount determined by the heads of family for fa’alavelave has increased which in many cases places excessive demands on family or household incomes. The practice of competitive gift giving exacerbates the burden causing disharmony in families and community.” Samoan people’s understanding of primary prevention of violence against women’, Inquiry document 91 Financial burdens can also be worsened due to cultural practices and the fines imposed by Village Fonos for transgression of local by-laws. The majority of punishments are monetary based, or in extreme cases banishment and both place great financial duress upon families. In its report to the CEDAW Committee in 2017, the Government highlighted this as an issue which they are aware of. 124 Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development. (2017). Samoa Family Safety Study. Document 46 in Inquiry anthology, accessible at www.ombudsman.gov.ws. 125 This may also be linked into the notion of man as the provider and men seeking to demonstrate their prowess through ever increasing fa’alavelave contributions.