The need for stronger enforcement powers for the Online Safety Commission in Fiji was underscored by journalist Rashika Kumar during the recent 2025 Women in Media Conference held at the Grand Pacific Hotel. Kumar highlighted the significant vulnerabilities faced by female journalists, noting that many endure harassment based on superficial judgments about their appearance and behavior.
At the forefront of her concerns was the perception that the commission, which is tasked with addressing online abuse, lacks the authority to take effective action against perpetrators. “They need more teeth,” she stated, emphasizing the inadequacies in prosecuting online offenders. According to Kumar, many victims are left without resolution, highlighting the emotional toll that such injustices can have on individuals.
This call for reform resonates with prior discussions from various stakeholders, including Vijay Narayan, the news director of Communications Fiji Ltd, who previously criticized the Online Safety Act as insufficient. Similar sentiments were echoed by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, who pointed out the commission’s current limitations and the urgent need for legislative amendments to empower it to impose penalties on online offenders.
There is an increasing awareness of the challenges women journalists face, compounded by a growing recognition that the existing legal structures are not equipped to protect them adequately. The conversations at the conference reflect a broader societal commitment to advocating for necessary reforms that could enhance safety for all individuals in the digital landscape.
While the current situation may seem daunting, it is encouraging to witness the collective push for meaningful changes that could lead to a more equitable and safer online environment for everyone, particularly those who have faced marginalization. With ongoing advocacy and public engagement, there is hope for legislative measures that will empower individuals to stand against online abuse more effectively.
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