Nearly 70 percent of women in Kiribati suffer abuse

[Stacey King]

Radio NZ International Posted at 19:56 on 08 December, 2009 UTC

Nearly 70 percent of the women in Kiribati experience abuse by their husbands, close relatives and others.

This was revealed in a recent study conducted by the Ministry of Internal and Social Welfare.

The report says women were beaten, threatened, and even raped and some rapists are reported to be cousins and close relatives.

Many of the crimes happened at home, according to the report.

The report said 19 percent of the victims are young girls under the age of 15.

Women’s organisations, churches and other concerned bodies have challenged the government to remedy these problems.

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