Fiji Cabinet approves nation’s first National Child Safeguarding Policy, uniting protection efforts across sectors
The Fiji Cabinet has approved the country’s first National Child Safeguarding Policy, a milestone in child protection that sets out a standardized framework for safeguarding responsibilities, practices, and procedures across all sectors that work with or for children. The policy aims to ensure that every government department, civil society group, school, health facility, and other institution understands its role in protecting children and is held to clear, consistent standards.
The policy responds to the need to close gaps in the child protection system by providing a unified approach to safeguarding across government, civil society, education, and health sectors. It was developed after broad consultations and is described by the Ministry as a clear demonstration of Fiji’s determination to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all children, in line with national priorities and global commitments. It signals an important step forward for the nation and reinforces Fiji’s commitment to a safe, heard, and valued childhood for all.
The Ministry noted that the policy complements and supports the country’s recent legislative framework, including the Care and Protection Act 2024 and the Child Justice Act 2024, by extending safeguarding standards across all domains that interact with children. UNICEF has welcomed the progress, praising the government’s commitment to strengthening child protection and pledging continued collaboration to ensure effective implementation of these laws.
The policy is part of a broader push to translate legal reforms into practical protections for children, with ongoing efforts to bolster coordination, training, and accountability in child protection. This aligns with Fiji’s broader drive to create a safer environment where children’s rights are upheld and their voices are heard.
Context and added value
– The policy aligns with recent laws: Care and Protection Act 2024 and Child Justice Act 2024, reinforcing a cross-sector safeguarding framework.
– UNICEF has supported and praised these developments and offers continued collaboration for effective rollout.
– The initiative sits within a wider reform context, including efforts to strengthen the Department of Children and related coordination mechanisms to deliver on child protection commitments.
– The policy reinforces global commitments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, signaling Fiji’s ambition to meet international standards on child welfare.
Key takeaways for readers
– A unified national approach to protecting children across all sectors is now in place, with clear roles and accountability.
– The policy is designed to ensure consistent safeguarding practices, improving how children are protected in schools, health settings, social services, and communities.
– Implementation will involve collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and development partners, with ongoing monitoring and capacity-building efforts.
Summary: Fiji’s National Child Safeguarding Policy marks a pivotal shift toward standardized, cross-sector protections for children, building on recent legal reforms and international commitments. Supported by UNICEF and aligned with new Acts, the policy sets the stage for a safer, more responsive environment where every child can thrive.
Leave a comment