Fiji Urges Families to Talk More This Holiday to Keep Children Safe

The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection is calling on parents, guardians, and families to be vigilant and maintain open lines of communication to safeguard children during the upcoming school holiday period. Minister Sashi Kiran highlighted the importance of staying connected, particularly in an age dominated by mobile communication, stating that there is no reason for families to be unaware of their children’s whereabouts.

Kiran expressed significant concern over the alarming rise in reported cases of missing children and those found deceased in Fiji. “We are deeply concerned at the number of young children being found dead or missing around the country,” she remarked. The Minister pointed out that some families mistakenly believe their missing relatives are safe with other relatives without confirming their location, a notion that becomes increasingly dangerous amidst rising drug-related incidents in the community.

The minister noted that throughout the year, many children found living on the streets had not been reported missing by their families, exposing them to critical dangers. To combat this, she urged families to establish clear communication protocols, such as updating each other on travel plans and expected arrival times.

Kiran emphasized that the school holidays should be a period filled with joy, relaxation, and connection among families, rather than leading to preventable harm. She encouraged elders within families to foster open dialogue with children, monitor their emotional and physical health, and ensure they are not left unsupervised in potentially unsafe environments.

For children feeling unsafe or in need of support, the Ministry offers a 24-hour toll-free Child Helpline at 1325, staffed by trained counselors. This resource is also available for parents and guardians seeking advice on challenges or wanting to connect with support services.

The Minister underscored that protecting children is a collective obligation shared among families, communities, and institutions. She assured that the Ministry will persist in collaborating closely with various stakeholders and enforcement agencies to enhance child protection systems and promptly address any instances of harm. Through these initiatives, there is hope for improved safety and wellbeing for children across Fiji.