Thus far the Report has established the pervasive and self-perpetuating nature of family violence that is
facilitated within a patriarchal society where women are subservient to men and violence is a control
mechanism to protect that hierarchy. It has also been found how violence becomes a part of people’s lives
from birth, substituting many other non-violent approaches and in an environment where children are
raised, using the very gender stereotypes that cause adult family violence. The Report has detailed the
many ways in which that occurs within the Samoan context and also found an overwhelming national
consensus that this can no longer continue.
Armed with this understanding of both the nature and the causes of family violence, Samoa now needs
to take a more serious and active approach to family violence to ensure success. The final part of the
Report outlines a comprehensive nationwide solution which addresses all of the root causes and takes
into account the nature of family violence, as told by those who live it. To be successful it requires three
things:
1. For all recommendations to be implemented, not a select few. The nature of family violence
has shown that anything but zero tolerance will ultimately lead to its continuation across
society;
2. For the solution to be vocally supported by all leaders and decision makers, including
politicians, church and community leaders;
3. For every single person to play their part – everybody has a personal responsibility and a role
to play in the elimination of family violence.
Over the course of the Inquiry it has become evident that the prize for addressing family violence is not
just increased peace, social cohesion and harmony. If the proposed solutions in this part of the Report are
fully accepted and implemented, Samoa can expect to enjoy greater and more sustained economic
development, increased quality of life, reduced poverty, reduced violence across society in general and
an overall reduction in violent crimes.
Furthermore, through their basis in Fa’asamoa, Faith and human rights, implementation of the following
recommendations will strengthen cultural and religious values, making them more relevant in today’s
society and therefore more resilient for the future. By embracing the mutually reinforcing nature of
human rights, the Fa’asamoa and Faith, Samoa will be creating a framework for protection and prevention
that extends far beyond family violence and will serve the country well for generations to come.
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