Human Rights Coalition CEO Anne Pakoa has highlighted the need for stronger family responsibility and cultural education at home, saying this is essential for building respect, peace, and stronger communities in Vanuatu.
Speaking on issues of domestic peace and traditional leadership, Pakoa said responsibility for raising children and teaching values begins within the home and not only through formal or customary dispute systems.
She said parents, grandparents, and extended family members all play a critical role in guiding children and teaching respect before matters escalate to chiefs or formal resolution processes.
“Domestic peace processes must start at home first before it goes to the nakamal,” she said.
Pakoa also highlighted the importance of traditional governance systems, noting the role of chiefs in maintaining order and resolving conflicts within communities.
She said institutions such as the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs remain an important arm of government in supporting cultural leadership and community stability.
However, she raised concern about a growing gap in traditional knowledge among young people, particularly in urban areas.
She questioned how many children are still learning essential cultural skills and languages, such as weaving, traditional practices, and indigenous languages.
“How many young girls today in Port Vila can weave mats? How many children in Vila or Santo still speak their language? If they cannot, then we are failing,” she said.
Pakoa warned that the loss of cultural knowledge reflects a breakdown in home-based education and responsibility, stressing that families must take greater ownership in preserving identity, respect, and traditional values.
