Dear Editor – I want to express my personal view about the lack of access to the justice system, considering so much cases happening in our country, the Solomon Islands.
It came to our attention that most of victims experiencing abuse and rape have remained silent and unable to speak out about it.
In a case in Isabel province, a 49-year-old father was accused of raping his daughter.
Her daughter was silent for an extended period until she became pregnant. The issue came to light after she told her grandmother that her father had impregnated her.
Raising awareness about human rights in rural communities and remote islands is important, mainly focusing on women and girls who are victimized and providing legal help to support them.
Everyone must understand the value of their rights to ensure that girls who experience sexual assault report the matter to the elders or police for appropriate action.
As a law scholar advocating for human rights, we need to work together by spreading awareness to our young children to help them understand human rights, as they are the future of our country.
Law enforcement needs to put more effort into reaching out to victims of rape to amplify their stories and push for law and order to address their needs.
Yours sincerely.
Gweneth Donga
USP Student
Id: S11218681
