However, members of the hereditary nobility have substantial advantages in Tongan society. These include control over most of the land and a generally privileged status. Nonetheless, it is possible for commoners to rise to Cabinet positions in government and to accumulate great wealth and status in the private sector. In Tonga's male dominated society, women generally occupy a subordinate role. While the strong Polynesian cultural tradition has discouraged the rise of women to positions of leadership, some have become members of the legislature and served in responsible positions in various occupations.
Domestic violence is infrequent.
As a result, the country does not have a women's crisis center. Children Child abuse, if it occurs, is rare and has not become a source of societal concern. The Government is committed to children's human rights and welfare and provides commensurate funding for children's welfare within the context of the total resources available to the State. People with Disabilities No mandated provisions for accessibility for the disabled erxist. There were no known complaints of discrimination in employment, education, or provision of other state services.