Fiji is grappling with a significant drug crisis, prompting calls for a comprehensive response that distinguishes between traffickers and users. Jemesa Lave, a consultant for the Counter Narcotics Bill, emphasized the urgent need for a new approach during a public consultation at the Labasa Civic Centre.
Lave highlighted that the current situation involves two distinct groups: those who profit from drug trafficking and those who suffer from drug use. He pointed out that the existing laws inadequately address the rehabilitation and recovery needs of users, which is a crucial aspect of the proposed legislation.
The consultant advocated for a balanced legal framework that imposes strict penalties on traffickers while simultaneously offering support and rehabilitation for users. He stressed that the responsibility for addressing drug-related issues cannot rest solely on the police, and that a coordinated effort from the entire nation is vital.
In his remarks, Lave called for collaboration among various stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, community groups, civil society, and international partners, to combat the drug problem effectively. He underscored the importance of a collective effort to create structured opportunities for recovery, marking a significant shift in how Fiji approaches drug enforcement and rehabilitation.
This initiative seeks not only to punish wrongdoers but also to pave the way for a transformative approach that fosters recovery and reintegration for individuals struggling with substance use. As Fiji confronts its drug crisis, this balanced approach could offer hope for a healthier future for its citizens.
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