Renewed concern over child labor in Fiji has emerged as social media videos show children, reportedly under 15, selling food near service stations and on streets during late-night hours. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the circumstances behind these young vendors are unclear and warns that the issue reflects broader social challenges. He acknowledged that while the problem has appeared online for some time, it had not been formally addressed at the highest level until now, urging coordinated action from authorities and communities to protect children.
Rabuka condemned the current situation as a failure of the community, society, and parenthood to safeguard youth. “We are failing as a community, a society as a nation and our parenthood has failed,” he said, adding that without proper policing, underage children are being employed in risky environments, and the reasons behind what they’re selling remain uncertain.
The prime minister called for a joint response to enforce child protection laws, tackle root causes such as poverty and neglect, and prevent children from being exposed to unsafe working conditions. He emphasized that protecting children requires collaboration across government, law enforcement, and community groups to ensure that young people are safe, educated, and given opportunities to thrive.
Context and related data reinforce the urgency of the issue. Recent surveys and government reports show this is part of a broader pattern of child labor and violence. Data from the Fiji Government’s ongoing child protection efforts indicate substantial involvement of children in labor across ages, with thousands of cases and a concerning clip of statistics showing significant levels of violence experienced by children. In parallel, the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection has highlighted that child protection laws enacted in recent years are intended to safeguard minors and provide support to families facing economic hardship.
Experts and officials point to several contributing factors: family poverty and breakdowns, gaps in education access, and the risks associated with informal street economies that attract vulnerable children. Authorities have established mechanisms such as a Child Labour Taskforce, which includes the Fiji Police Force, and are working under broader strategies to strengthen children’s rights, raise awareness, and develop policies that keep children safe and in school.
A recent government survey also highlights the scale of child labor and its broader social costs. The ministry has pointed to the need for stronger investment in child protection initiatives and family support, including livelihood training and job opportunities for parents, to reduce the economic pressures that push children into labor.
What this means for communities and families
– Parks, streets, and service stations should be safer environments for children, with vigilant monitoring and clear reporting channels for concerns.
– Families in economic distress may need targeted support, including access to social protection programs and educational assistance to keep children in school.
– Local communities, schools, and religious and cultural groups can play a vital role in promoting positive parenting, safe practices, and early identification of at-risk youth.
– Authorities urge the public to report concerns about child welfare promptly to the appropriate channels rather than sharing footage that could retraumatize children.
Summary
The latest case adds to a broader pattern of child labor and violence in Fiji, underscoring the need for coordinated policy action, strengthened child protection frameworks, and community-driven efforts to address poverty and neglect at the root. With government programs, civil society, and families working together, there is an opportunity to improve outcomes for Fiji’s children and build a safer, more supportive environment for their growth and education.
Additional note
– Readers can support child protection efforts by staying informed, reporting concerns to helplines or authorities, and engaging in community programs that promote safe, nurturing environments for children.
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