Official websites use. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. This study aims to collect data on the experience and impact of gender-based violence experienced by women attending health clinics in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Any woman over the age of 18 who attended a local health clinic in Honiara, Solomon Islands during the time of recruitment ten consecutive weekdays in May was eligible to participate in an interviewer administered, in-person survey, gathering data on gender-based violence over the past 12 months.
There are low rates of reporting, particularly through formal avenues such as to police or village leaders. Alcohol was involved in more than half the cases of reported violence. Women in this study report high rates of gender-based violence. Efforts to reduce gender-based violence should aim to reduce intimate partner violence, increase reporting and address wider social attitudes towards gender equality.
We explored the experience and impact of gender-based violence among woman visiting Honiara health clinics through one-on-one interviews. Strengths include interviews were conducted in local languages and translated by local translators, and comprehensive information was gathered on the nature, frequency and impact of violence, including physical injuries, utilisation of healthcare services, police and legal involvement, and mental health impact. Gender-based violence has a negative impact on physical and mental health.
In recent years, the Solomon Islands have demonstrated the political will to address gender equality and gender-based violence. On a community level, hour training courses are available to locals working with non-for-for profit organisations, churches or community-based organisations who frequently see victims in their community and want to offer help.
However, there is a long way to go until these policies have a long-lasting impact on the incidence and impact of gender-based violence in the Solomon Islands. There are three peer-reviewed studies examining gender-based violence in the Solomon Islands. One is a retrospective chart review of Solomon Islands hospital data, 23 while another documents personal experiences of gender-based violence from overseas healthcare workers on placement.
