More than 30 residents, including youths and Mothers from Taikone Village in Port Moresby city recently participated in a Phase 2 gender-based violence (GBV) awareness conducted by the Pilai Long Senis Program.
Pilai Long Senis is a community-based program delivered through a partnership between AFL PNG and PNG Tribal Foundation.
Senisim Pasin National Coordinator Marjorie Finkeo said the second phase of the awareness focused on helping participants identify common domestic issues, their causes, and the impacts they have on families and communities.
Participants took part in interactive group activities and discussions on gender-based violence (GBV) and sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV).
They were also introduced to non-violent communication tools, referral pathways, and support services available to survivors, including police, safe houses, counselling centres, family support centres, and health clinics.
During the discussions, a participant, Ms. Rose Vavine identified intercultural marriage as one of the common issues affecting families.
“Different beliefs and cultural norms between husbands and wives can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and violence,” she said.
Participants also raised concerns about the lack of action on issues reported to community police and leaders, which they said has contributed to increasing law and order problems.
Alcohol and drug abuse were identified as major contributors to violence in the community, often resulting in arguments, family breakdowns, child neglect, unemployment, and other social challenges. Ms. Finkeo said the first phase of the program, conducted in March, involved documentary screenings focused on gender appreciation and promoting positive attitudes towards women.
“The second phase builds on that foundation through interactive learning and discussion aimed at changing attitudes and behaviours, while encouraging men to value and respect women in their homes and communities,” she said.
The next Phase 2 awareness will be conducted in the Gerehu community next week. Ms. Finkeo thanked AFL PNG for supporting the program through funding provided under the Australian High Commission’s Team Up Program.
