Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, is calling on communities to renew their commitment to safeguarding children, women, the elderly, and individuals living with disabilities. In her heartfelt Christmas message, Kiran emphasized that the holiday season symbolizes togetherness, reflection, and shared responsibility.
Encouraging families to strengthen their kinship ties and embrace the values of ‘veilomani’ (love and compassion), which are foundational to Fijian culture, Kiran highlighted the importance of quality time spent together during Christmas. She reminded everyone to prioritize safety, especially as many journeys to reunite with loved ones, urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding children’s activities.
Reflecting on a year that she described as both challenging and productive for her ministry, Kiran marked several key accomplishments. These include advances in the implementation of the Child Justice Act and the Child Protection Act, the launch of the National Child Safeguarding Policy, and the initiation of a National Action Plan aimed at preventing violence against children. She emphasized the importance of community involvement to ensure that Fiji’s children grow up in safe, loving environments.
The Minister also discussed significant progress made for people with disabilities and senior citizens, such as the introduction of the revised National Policy on the Rights of Persons Living with Disabilities and the ongoing evaluation of the National Ageing Policy. While acknowledging these successes, Kiran stressed that there is still considerable work to be done to guarantee equitable access to essential services and opportunities crucial to dignity and inclusion.
On the subject of women’s rights, Kiran highlighted the rollout of the National Action Plan on Women’s Economic Empowerment and Fiji’s initiatives to address commitments under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. She noted the Cabinet’s endorsement for gender mainstreaming across 14 government agencies, indicating a commitment to institutional capacity development.
Despite these advancements, Kiran reiterated that crafting effective policies and legislation is insufficient by itself. She underscored a national commitment to not only respond to violence against women but also to implement preventive measures. Recent reviews of service delivery protocols have aimed to ensure that victims receive timely and appropriate support.
Kiran urged anyone affected by or aware of violence to reach out for support through established helplines. She expressed gratitude to the Ministry staff, frontline workers, caregivers, managers of orphanages, aged care facilities, and families who support vulnerable members of society.
As the festive season approaches, Kiran is appealing to all Fijians to support one another and teach the young generation values of kindness and empathy. She wishes the nation a safe and joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with compassion, peace, and shared blessings.
This message of solidarity and goodwill highlights the ongoing commitment of the Fijian government to foster a supportive community, showcasing a hopeful vision for a future where every individual is safe, respected, and valued.
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