Harmful norms such as people thinking it was justified for a husband to be violent to his wife were found during the Samoa Victim Support Group (S.V.S.G.) and University College London (U.C.L.) project.

The project is in the final phase. It is called the EVE project, which aims to address power dynamics, inequalities, and the consequences of violence within relationships.

The project recently concluded a highly successful two-day community intervention in the village of Vaitele. The event engaged 30 community members, including high chiefs, women, and youth.

The participants were divided into three groups: matai (chiefs), women, and youth, allowing for a deeper exploration of power dynamics within each group in the village of Vaitele.

On the second day, the program shifted its focus to achieving healthy, violence-free relationships, leading to the formation of two groups: men and women. Through breakout sessions, the groups engaged in constructive discussions on various violence intervention scenarios and strategies to promote healthy relationships.

One poignant testimony came from a father who expressed his gratitude for being part of the program, acknowledging his violent behavior towards his children and family. Through the program, he learned the importance of love and has undergone a transformative change in his attitude towards his family.

While the majority of participants exhibited positive responses, it is essential to highlight a concerning discovery. Shockingly, four participants, three women and one man, expressed support for the notion that it is acceptable for men to physically harm their wives.

This revelation indicates the persistent presence of harmful norms and attitudes, which underscores the urgent need for intervention and ongoing awareness.

The SVSG facilitators challenged the participants further and their way of thinking through case scenarios. One question presented was whether it is justifiable for a man to resort to violence against his wife if she had been unwell throughout the day. The ensuing discussions unveiled different perspectives within the group.

One participant noted that while the man's anger may be understandable, resorting to violence is never justified. Another participant emphasized that a wife should not be subjected to physical abuse for failing to fulfill her responsibilities. Drawing from biblical teachings, another participant highlighted that resorting to violence contradicts the principle of treating others with kindness and wisdom.

These exchanges exemplify the significance of the EVE project's intervention in challenging harmful beliefs and promoting healthy relationship dynamics.

“As the collaborative project between SVSG and UCL nears its completion, SVSG is grateful to the participants for their active engagement and commitment to positive change. The EVE project's impact is far-reaching, fostering critical discussions, challenging harmful beliefs, and laying the foundation for healthier and violence-free relationships in Samoa,” said Siliniu Lina Chang, SVSG President.