The National Coordinating Committee on Child Protection in Fiji has been reinstated to enhance efforts aimed at protecting children’s welfare amid growing concerns about child abuse in the nation. The decision to revive the committee comes in response to alarming statistics highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive action to address these issues.
During the opening meeting, Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, underscored the importance of a united front in confronting the challenges of child protection. The reported statistics are alarming:
– In 2023, 1,477 cases of child abuse were documented, an increase from 1,968 cases in 2022 and 1,518 in 2021.
– Over half of the victims were girls, with more than 50% under the age of 12.
– The data indicates that 68% of the reported cases involved neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse, with family members implicated in 50% of these cases.
– The Child Helpline was responsible for half of the abuse case reports.
Further insights from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics’ MICS Plus 2024-2025 survey revealed that an alarming 80% of children aged 1-14 experienced violent disciplinary measures within the previous month. The situation is particularly grave, with the youngest reported rape victim at just three years old and the youngest perpetrator being only 12.
Minister Kiran pointed out that the newly established Department of Children is crucial for leading initiatives related to children’s rights protection. Key efforts include child protection programs, advocacy, policy development, and educational outreach.
The Ministry is actively collaborating with stakeholders to launch a zero-tolerance campaign against violence, while also working on building community capacity, fostering trauma awareness, and promoting positive parenting practices.
Upcoming legislative measures are set to include the Adoption Act (2020), Child Justice Act (2024), and Child Care and Protection Act (2024), all intended to enhance the framework of child protection systems. Additionally, Minister Kiran mentioned plans to bolster child protection training, monitoring systems, and coordination among partners in the near future.
This revitalized commitment through the National Coordinating Committee on Child Protection reinforces Fiji’s dedication to ensuring that every child is provided with a safe environment where they can thrive and lead fulfilling lives. The focus on legislation, community involvement, and education presents a hopeful pathway forward in combating child abuse and promoting the welfare of children across the nation.
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