Parents need to recognize their own shortcomings when it comes to addressing drug issues among their children, as the responsibility for the growing drug crisis cannot be placed solely on government authorities. This sentiment was at the forefront during a Speaker’s Debate held in Suva last week, where members from Parliament, academia, non-governmental organizations, and civil society organizations highlighted the critical influence parents have on their children’s choices.
Shairana Ali, the CEO of Save the Children Fiji, strongly advocated for stricter laws and policies to protect children and emphasized the need for more investment in preventative programs. She raised alarming reports of rising funeral numbers in certain communities linked to methamphetamine overdoses among children. Ali noted troubling trends, such as children engaging in glue sniffing and selling illicit substances, which increase their risk of HIV infection.
Ali highlighted that these dangerous behaviors often stem from a familial cycle of drug use. In some cases, parents, particularly fathers, may inadvertently normalize drug use by introducing their children to these substances. Additionally, a decrease in community discourse against drugs, along with inadequate police presence, has exacerbated the situation. As a result, more children are skipping school to engage in drug-related activities, which puts them at a greater risk of violence and trauma.
She stressed the necessity for adequate rehabilitation programs, as many children involved in substance abuse do not have access to support services. Ali advocated for a comprehensive investment in drug prevention strategies to protect Fiji’s future generations, emphasizing that understanding the underlying conditions that expose youth to drugs is essential.
Ali’s call for revitalizing organizations like the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council, alongside involving parents, elders, and faith-based organizations, underscores the collective responsibility in addressing this crisis. She also pressed the importance of establishing a support system for counseling and rehabilitation, while fostering open discussions about mental health to combat stigma associated with drug use.
Similarly, Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma echoed these sentiments, stating that various substances have become ingrained in the society’s fabric. He highlighted the urgent need for increased mental health resources and emphasized the importance of discipline in schools, arguing that parents should be held accountable for their children’s behavior. Anticipating a collaborative approach to combat drugs, Sharma stressed the need for effective legal frameworks and community-wide engagement in resolving this pressing issue.
Dr. Odille Chang, an associate professor of psychiatry at Fiji National University, noted that drug-related offenses had nearly tripled from 2016 to 2020 and called for community involvement in developing culturally appropriate solutions. She also mentioned FNU’s collaboration with the Ministry of Health to create a community-based recovery facility aimed at providing support and education about substance use disorders.
This situation, while concerning, presents an opportunity for communities to unite and actively participate in finding solutions, focusing on education and prevention to build a more resilient future for the children of Fiji. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of this issue and working collectively, there is hope for establishing a healthier environment for the younger generation.
Summary: During a recent debate in Suva, stakeholders discussed the critical role parents play in preventing their children from engaging in drug use. Shairana Ali from Save the Children Fiji called for stricter drug policies and greater investment in preventive programs, highlighting alarming trends of substance abuse among children. There is a consensus that addressing the drug crisis requires collective action from parents, community organizations, and government agencies, focusing on education, rehabilitation, and open dialogue about mental health. Despite the challenges, there is an opportunity for community engagement and proactive strategies to combat the drug issue and protect future generations.
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