Solomon Islands Churches Urged to Tackle Violence Against Women

The head of a leading theological seminary in the Solomon Islands has challenged local churches to do more to prevent abuse against vulnerable groups, particularly women and people with disabilities, the Melanesian Messenger reports.

The call from the Rev Philemon Akao, principal of the Bishop Patteson Theological College, was part of a wider appeal for the church to become more active in eliminating all forms of violence.

Violence in the Solomon Islands had become a real problem that had continued unchecked for decades, Rev Akao told participants in a three-day ecumenical theological consultation held at the end of August.

"It's time all faith-based and government and non-governmental organisations vested with such responsibility revisit their role and lead the way to stop the suffering of women through such violence and abuse, and deplore the senseless and inhuman actions of the perpetrators," he said.

He added, "We have come from different and distinct affiliated groups; however, let us not allow the mask of different organisations to distract us from the reality of violence against women and the indifference to people with disabilities."