Fiji’s Women, Children and Social Protection Minister, Lynda Tabuya, has termed pornography as the “new drug” affecting the nation. She highlighted that, similar to methamphetamine and cocaine, pornography exerts comparable effects on the brain.
To address this issue, Tabuya announced that the Cabinet has approved the establishment of a pornography task force aimed at investigating the detrimental impacts of pornography. Despite its availability on the internet, the government is determined to tackle this new concern.
The task force will be co-chaired by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection and the Ministry of Communications, which will oversee the relevant portal. Tabuya emphasized the necessity of political will, pointing out that other countries have effectively prohibited pornography by blocking it from access.
She noted that with the upcoming introduction of Starlink, a satellite internet service launched by Elon Musk, there is an opportunity to educate citizens on responsible internet usage.
Additionally, Tabuya mentioned that platforms like Telegram are being used by young girls to exchange nude images, which constitutes a crime if done without parental consent. The Pornography Taskforce will also focus on evaluating general internet usage in Fiji.
Tabuya believes that a national campaign is essential to promote responsible internet engagement as the country becomes increasingly connected globally.