Sexual offenses in Fiji have surged by 28% according to the most recent crime statistics released by the Fiji Police Force, as discussed by Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women and Children. Speaking at the Sathya Sai Service Organisation-National Ladies Retreat in Rakiraki, Kiran highlighted that a troubling 60% of the victims of these offenses are children under the age of 18.
The statistics reveal that crimes against children have also increased by 8%, with over half of these cases involving sexual abuse, and nearly a quarter occurring within family homes. Kiran denounced these acts as “atrocities against our daughters, our sisters, our mothers” and called for a collective response to protect the vulnerable.
In addition to the alarming rise in sexual offenses against children, Kiran noted that neglect and abuse of elderly citizens is a growing concern in Fiji. She lamented the shift in societal values, emphasizing that respect and care for elders have diminished, often with the abusers being their own adult children. Kiran stressed that elders, who are the custodians of wisdom and family values, deserve love and honor as a fundamental aspect of family life.
The statistics emerging from these discussions are harrowing. Recent reports indicate that among cases of child sexual abuse, the most prevalent crime remains rape, affecting primarily girls and young women. The severe state of child welfare is echoed in previous reports where the average age of the youngest victim of sexual abuse has been just two years old, highlighting the urgent need for national action and societal change.
This troubling reality emphasizes the necessity for immediate interventions, by both government and community entities, to address these deeply rooted issues. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering safe environments for children and elders alike, advocating for stronger familial bonds, respect, and protection against abuse.
The situation calls for a unified stand, and Kiran’s remarks serve to galvanize the community towards collective responsibility and protective measures for the vulnerable, ensuring that every individual—be they child or elder—receives the dignity and protection they rightfully deserve.
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