Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has expressed alarm over the recent statistics regarding serious sexual offences against children in Fiji, labeling the figures as profoundly disturbing and calling for immediate national attention. These statistics, released by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, compile the formal indictments filed in Fiji’s High Courts from January to December 2025.
Kiran’s findings are disheartening, revealing that some of the most egregious acts of sexual violence against children are occurring in environments that should provide safety—specifically within their homes and communities. Cases have emerged involving victims as young as four years old, with the alleged perpetrators being close relatives, including fathers, brothers, uncles, and grandfathers.
Moreover, the statistics illustrate a troubling trend involving minors themselves accused of serious offences; for instance, a 12-year-old boy faced charges for the rape of his six-year-old cousin, and a 13-year-old boy was charged with the rape of a five-year-old girl from his village.
By the end of December 2025, a total of 126 indictments were filed in the High Court, encompassing 252 counts of serious sexual offences. The data indicated that 141 individuals were charged, including 20 juveniles under the age of 18, while 135 victims were recorded, with 79 of them being children. The crimes ranged from rape and sexual assault to defilement, indecent assault, and incest.
Kiran particularly highlighted that 63 of these offences occurred within domestic relationships or involved individuals known to the victims. This statistic showcases a troubling reality: sexual violence against children in Fiji is often concealed behind closed doors and maintained in silence within families and communities.
In response, Kiran is urging religious, community, and traditional leaders to adopt a proactive stance in discussing child protection matters openly. She emphasized that silence and stigma perpetuate abuse and called for the establishment of safe spaces within various communal settings—such as churches, temples, mosques, schools, and village meetings—where discussions about child safety can take place without fear of judgment.
Kiran also implores parents, relatives, neighbors, and community members to take children seriously when they disclose instances of abuse. Educating children on their rights and bodily autonomy is paramount; they must know they can say no and that they will be believed and protected if they speak out.
The Ministry remains committed to enhancing child protection systems and is engaging collaboratively with educators, medical professionals, law enforcement, legal authorities, civil society organizations, and faith-based groups. The aim is to strengthen reporting mechanisms, provide counseling services, and promote preventive education to safeguard the well-being of children across Fiji. This collective effort is crucial in addressing the alarming trends of child sexual offences and fostering a safer environment for children.
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