28 Nov 2014

Vanuatu group ask MPs to wear white ribbons

7:17 am on 28 November 2014

The Vanuatu Women Centre is giving out white ribbons to the members of parliament in the hope they will lead the way in helping combat violence against women.

That follows International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25th.

Parliament is currently on its last ordinary session for this year.

The centre's chief executive officer, Merelyn Tahi says that prime minister, Joe Natuman, is among the ministers and MPs to wear a white ribbon.

"We have planned and distributed white ribbons to the members of parliament, and we are really happy that the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister and some members of parliament are wearing [the ribbon] during parliament this week."

Merelyn Tahi is hoping that by wearing a white ribbon, the MPs will inspire other men in Vanuatu to pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent on violence against women.