In Vailele, a village near Apia, Samoa, a group of women gather in the traditional meeting house (fale) to discuss their community’s priorities—this time, without the presence of men. It marks a shift in village governance, where women are now active participants in addressing issues like gender-based violence. Local resident Taufanua Lemanu explains that through the Spotlight Initiative, women are now working alongside matais (chiefs) to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
Previously, conversations about gender-based violence were considered taboo and kept within the confines of family discussions. Pamela Sua, Secretary-General of the Samoa National Women’s Council, notes that the topic is now openly addressed, with village councils welcoming these conversations as essential to community well-being. Involving women has proven especially critical in rural areas where police presence is limited, and village councils serve as the main authority.
Vailele was one of 15 villages that took part in leadership and violence prevention training, supported by the UNDP and the Spotlight Initiative. More than 300 women received training in human rights and survivor support. The goal was to empower them as community first responders and facilitators of conversations around violence, ensuring that help is available close to home.
Palanitina Tupuimatagi Toelupe of the National Council of Women explains that small group dialogues, guided by reflective questions, helped turn informal gossip about abuse into productive, action-oriented discussions. Traditional storytelling techniques—like song, dance, and performance—were used to spark engagement and make participants feel safe and included.
These efforts led to the introduction of village by-laws in Vailele and other communities, enabling women to bring issues directly to the council and enforce penalties for abusers. Such by-laws received the support of the matais and led to a system where perpetrators are punished and survivors are encouraged to report to police.
Even after the Spotlight Initiative’s first phase ended in 2023, its impact remains. Women now have formal avenues to raise concerns, influence governance, and ensure safety. Gender-based violence is no longer seen as a private matter but a shared community responsibility. Ms. Toelupe hopes the seeds of prevention will continue to grow, fostering safer, more equal communities where men and boys learn to protect and respect women and girls.
The Spotlight Initiative in Samoa was implemented by UNDP, UN Women, UNICEF, UNESCO, and UNFPA.
