Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, has expressed interest in Australia’s groundbreaking social media legislation, which restricts children under 16 from accessing various platforms unless they undergo age verification. Passed by the Australian Parliament, this law is set to take effect in a year and imposes significant fines on social media companies that fail to comply. However, gaming and messaging applications are exempt from the requirements.

While the legislation has faced criticism from technology companies for its rapid development and lack of consultation, it represents a pioneering attempt to manage young people’s engagement with social media responsibly.

Mr. Kamikamica indicated that Fiji must navigate the challenges posed by the digital era, particularly concerning the negative implications of social media for children. He noted that the law from Australia is a topic of consideration for the National Pornography Taskforce, emphasizing that it is just one of several potential measures being evaluated.

The taskforce plans to reconvene after Parliament’s current session, although specific details on other initiatives have not been disclosed. Sashi Kiran, a representative from the Children and Social Protection sector, supports the dialogue but highlighted the critical role of parental responsibility in ensuring children’s safety online.

The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is currently examining the Australian legislation, with plans to release a statement following detailed research. The Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation, Lynda Tabuya, has yet to share her insights on the matter.

This movement towards regulating social media in Fiji echoes a global trend of prioritizing the safety of young internet users and suggests a growing awareness and proactive approach to mitigating online risks. With careful implementation and consideration involving parents and authorities, this initiative could foster a safer digital environment for the nation’s youth.

In conclusion, as discussions progress, there is potential for impactful measures that balance technology’s benefits with the imperative to protect children in this digital age.