The Fijian Parliament has enacted the Child Justice Act 2024 along with the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to juvenile crime and child welfare. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, emphasized that these new laws represent a departure from outdated mindsets that failed to protect children’s rights and contribute to ongoing crime rates.
Tabuya noted that the Child Justice Act aims to prevent recidivism among young offenders, turning them into responsible citizens by addressing the root causes of their offenses. She highlighted the Act’s emphasis on diversion strategies and the raising of the age of criminal responsibility as key components that work synergistically with the Fiji Child Care and Protection Bill.
The Child Care and Protection Act lays the groundwork for safeguarding children’s rights and welfare, underscoring the need for nurturing familial environments free from abuse and neglect. By coupling this support framework with the Child Justice Act’s rehabilitative focus, the legislation seeks to ensure that children’s voices are heard and their circumstances understood when they come into conflict with the law.
In her address, Tabuya called upon her colleagues in the police and justice ministries to embrace the changes mandated by these new laws. She stressed the necessity for law enforcement to engage with children compassionately and to work collaboratively in implementing diversion programs. The Minister also highlighted the critical role of the Justice Ministry in training legal personnel on the principles outlined in this newly enacted legislation.
This legislative development is a hopeful step towards fostering a more compassionate and just system for children in Fiji, prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment and ensuring that young individuals are given the opportunity to thrive in safe and supportive environments.
This reform not only addresses immediate concerns related to crime and child welfare but also paves the way for a future where children are seen as vital members of society deserving of protection and the chance to grow into responsible adults.
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