Justice Minister Siromi Turaga emphasized the need to treat children caught in drug-related cases as vulnerable individuals rather than mere offenders. Speaking at the launch of a four-year drug prevention initiative funded by Japan and spearheaded by UNICEF, Turaga underscored the program’s goal of enhancing diversion pathways and community support systems for at-risk youth.
“When children are involved, our first focus is always on protection,” Turaga stated. He highlighted that children who engage in drug use often face significant harm and may be victims of exploitation themselves. He expressed concern about the alarming rise in reports of drug use among students and within communities, noting that these figures represent real lives in jeopardy rather than mere statistics.
While affirming Fiji’s commitment to combating trafficking and serious drug offenses, Turaga stressed that the justice system’s response for children should emphasize prevention and early intervention. He advocated for diversionary measures that would keep children out of detention and integrate them into family support, counseling, psychological services, and educational routes.
“Detention should always remain a last resort for children,” he asserted. The new initiative is aligned with the upcoming Child Justice Act 2024, which aims to translate legal provisions into actionable services, ensuring that no child is left to face risks alone.
This proactive approach signifies a hopeful shift towards a more compassionate and supportive framework for addressing youth involvement in drugs, highlighting the importance of protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
Leave a comment