Breaking the Silence: scholar tackles family violence in Vanuatu

University of Auckland student Emma Fisi’ilose Guillain hopes her Masters research will address family violence in Vanuatu.

A recipient of the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Knowledge Hub Scholarship; Guillain is pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM), investigating the effectiveness of family violence legislation in Vanuatu, and its impact on health and social well-being.

Born in Aotearoa, Guillain’s heritage reflects a rich tapestry of cultures: her father is part Vietnamese and Tongan, with ties to Ha’apai and ‘Uiha (Ha’ato’u village), while her mother hails from Kiribati, with ancestral links to Arorae, Tarawa, Abaiang and Butaritari. However her formative years were spent in Vanuatu where Guillain witnessed the ensuing silence around the occurrence of family violence.

Vanuatu has one of the highest rates of Intimate Partner Violence globally, consistently well above both global and regional averages.

“Growing up in Vanuatu, I have witnessed how family violence is often normalised and left unspoken.

“I seek to challenge that silence, bringing attention to the urgency of the issue, in the hope of creating pathways for justice and healing within affected communities.”

Breaking the Silence

Family violence across the Pacific remains a deeply entrenched issue, often normalised and left unspoken. Guillain’s research aims to challenge that silence. Driven by a mix of cultural, social and economic factors; deeply rooted gender norms and patriarchal traditions often normalise violence, making it difficult to challenge within families and communities.

Poverty and limited education increase women’s dependence on partners, while gaps in legal enforcement and scarce support services, especially in rural areas, leave victims with few options.

These challenges are compounded by stress from natural disasters and economic instability. Together, these factors create an environment where family violence persists, highlighting the urgent need for stronger laws, community education and better access to justice and health services.

The eldest of four girls, Guillain grew up in a small community but with ties stretching across the Pacific and south east Asia, her outlook has always been global. Her parents also enrolled Guillain and her sisters in a French institution to learn the language alongside her cousins.

“I grew up in a small community. Coming from such a mixed background allowed me to connect with many cultures around me.”

Guillain’s passion for law began in high school, where she first became aware of its critical role in shaping society.

“That early exposure confirmed my desire to pursue a legal career,” she says.

After moving from Vanuatu to New Zealand to pursue tertiary studies, Guillain developed a strong interest in family law and Pacific studies.

“I hope my work will make a difference by raising awareness and creating pathways for justice and healing,” she explains.

Guillain’s study examines how legislation can better support victims, improve access to justice and strengthen aftercare systems for physical and mental health.

Parents greatest source of motivation

“My parents have been my biggest supporters and motivation across my academic journey. Their dedication and sacrifices have played a significant role in getting me to where I am today.”

Guillain also acknowledges her supervisor, Professor Mark Henaghan, for his guidance and encouragement throughout her thesis journey. She’s says her faith also provides her with a source of strength and inspiration:

“I’m thankful to God for guiding me throughout my academic journey.”

Looking ahead there are plans to complete the Professional Legal Studies Course to begin her professional career, and in the long term she has her sights set on becoming a judge one day.

“I want to return to the islands and apply the knowledge and experience I’ve gained to contribute meaningfully to the community that raised me.”