Family and sexual violence continues to have devastating impacts on women, children and entire communities across Papua New Guinea says the Police Family Sexual Violence (FSV) Directorate.
The acting Director, Chief Sergeant Eremugo Job, shared with PNG HAUSBUNG the impacts of FSV on the family unit and what is being done to address this unfortunate situation in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
He said most FSV cases often result in death, permanent injuries, trauma and the breakdown of families.
“From our experience, we see women die, suffer permanent injuries, lose employment, become disabled or disfigured. Children become terrified, emotionally tormented and withdrawn,” he said.
He said violence in the home directly affects children’s wellbeing and development.
“Children who witness violence become aggressive, disobedient and fearful. They struggle to concentrate at school, lose interest in learning and isolate themselves from other children,” Chief Sergeant Job said.
When children are victims or witnesses to FSV, officers work closely with Child and Family Services, NGOs and community-based organizations to ensure protection, counselling and shelter.
“Children are the most vulnerable and they suffer because of adult actions. We can apply for protection orders, arrests and referrals for counselling and care,” he said.
Despite the availability of support, many women hesitate to report abuse due to fear, stigma and cultural pressure.
“Women fear retaliation from the perpetrator or his relatives. Some are unemployed and depend on their husband as the breadwinner. Others fear shame, divorce or losing their children,” Chief Sergeant Job explained.
He said bride price, cultural expectations and pressure from extended families often make situations worse.
“Most of the time, extended families support the perpetrator, even when he is clearly wrong. That makes the violence continue,” he said.
Chief Sergeant Job also highlighted challenges faced by FSV officers, including limited resources, manpower shortages and lack of specialized facilities.
“We need vehicles, boats for the provinces, dedicated FSV office buildings, trained officers, computers and internet access. Domestic violence happens every day, and we are still far from meeting the demand,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Chief Sergeant Job said strong partnerships with health services, NGOs and safe houses continue to provide crucial support for survivors.
“Medical services are free, safe houses are free, and counselling is provided. Our partners work very closely with us to protect victims,” he said.
He urged survivors not to wait until violence escalates.
“Family Violence Police are here to stay. Report the abuse early, apply for an IPO and let us protect you before it becomes worse or someone loses their life,” he said.
Chief Sergeant Job also called on men, families and communities to play an active role in prevention.
“Men must lead by example. Communities, churches, leaders and families must take responsibility. Violence is not culture, and it is not love,” he said.
He stressed that lasting change requires education, awareness and the rejection of harmful cultural practices.
“We must teach respect and responsibility from the home, from a young age. Violence can be prevented if everyone plays their part,” Chief Sergeant Job said.
