Minister Sashi Kiran, responsible for Women, Children, and Social Protection in Fiji, is advocating for increased recognition and support for the country’s social workers. These professionals are critical in dealing with family breakdowns, child abuse, substance and elder abuse, all of which are significant societal concerns.
Kiran addressed the revival of the Fiji Association of Social Workers, emphasizing the essential role these workers play in confronting issues like teenage pregnancies, HIV, drug challenges, and violence facilitated by technology. She sounded the alarm over the escalating crisis of child neglect, highlighting the contradiction this poses to Fiji’s strong community values.
The emotional toll on social workers is significant, as Kiran pointed out, noting they often adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms due to trauma. She called for the establishment of supportive environments, networks, and debriefing systems to sustain these essential workers. Learning from countries like New Zealand and Hawaii, she believes, could strengthen local programs while respecting Fijian traditions.
Minister Kiran reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing the Fiji Association of Social Workers, which supports over 400 professionals nationwide. The association’s symposium unites Pacific voices in social work, aiming for collective problem-solving.
The call for enhanced support aligns with previous statements from Minister Kiran and ongoing events like the Talanoa Moana Symposium and initiatives involving partnerships with organizations like UNICEF. These collaborative efforts focus on empowering local counselors and strengthening child protection mechanisms. By fostering community engagement and policy advancements, there’s a hopeful outlook that Fiji can successfully tackle these challenges and create a supportive environment for its vulnerable populations. Kiran’s proactive stance signifies a hopeful trajectory for better social welfare and protection in the region.
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