As part of efforts across the justice sector to enhance the well-being of legal professionals, the Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) recently held a special Team Day event focused on promoting physical health, teamwork, and inclusion.
The half-day beach volleyball tournament in Port Vila brought together professionals from 11 justice agencies, providing a valuable opportunity for them to take a break from their demanding work. The event aimed to address the high-stress environment often faced by those in the justice system, offering a moment to recharge and connect with colleagues in a relaxed and supportive setting.
Earlier this year, MJCS released research based on sector-wide surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The findings indicated that in many Pacific communities, especially in areas outside urban centers, legal professionals often encounter conflicts and ethical dilemmas due to the small size of the profession, the tight-knit nature of communities, kinship obligations, and, in some cases, exposure to political pressure. In response to these findings, justice agencies have committed to exploring new, culturally and contextually relevant approaches that will support MJCS professionals in their work within communities.
“Our justice professionals are doing incredible and tireless work every day to serve communities across Vanuatu,” stated MJCS Director-General Arthur Faerua. “However, the nature of their work means they regularly deal with heavy workloads, challenging cases, and emotionally distressing situations. We must prioritize their mental and physical well-being, not only for their health but also for the effective functioning of our justice system.”
Director-General Faerua emphasized that high-stress environments can lead to burnout, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, an issue that is common across legal and justice professions globally. Therefore, the volleyball tournament is just one part of MJCS’s broader efforts to promote well-being throughout the justice sector.
“Protecting our well-being is not just about what we do in the courtroom or office,” Faerua added. “It’s also about how we support our colleagues and the justice community outside of those spaces. Initiatives like this are essential. They allow our teams to step back and take a moment to breathe. We must all remember that self-care is key to taking care of others.”
In addition to the physical activities, the event featured informative talks on well-being and mental health, equipping attendees with practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Jane Tari, Acting Public Solicitor, stressed the importance of support among justice sector professionals and leaders as they strive to improve access to justice across the country. “In our demanding workplaces, the pressures and responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming,” Tari said. “That’s why agencies and colleagues must support one another, step in when someone is struggling, and remind each other that we don’t have to carry the load alone. Everyone needs to look after themselves to keep going and deliver justice for our communities, and events like this remind us to take time for self-care.”
During the tournament, teams from various agencies competed in friendly matches, and attendees reported the event as a great success. It not only encouraged physical activity but also strengthened personal relationships and professional networks. For many, it was a rare opportunity to step away from their roles' pressures and reconnect with colleagues from other justice agencies in a fun and informal atmosphere.
This initiative was developed as part of Vanuatu’s partnership with Australia to ensure justice sector professionals receive the support they need to thrive both personally and professionally. “The tournament represented much more than just volleyball,” noted Jean-Maurice Aite, who leads Australia’s well-being collaboration with MJCS. “It is about supporting the individuals who bear the responsibilities of the justice system every day. These professionals face significant stress, and we are closely working with MJCS to ensure they have the necessary support to protect their well-being. This is vital for a strong and cohesive justice system.”
