Fiji has received recognition from the Commonwealth for its notable efforts in inmate rehabilitation through the Yellow Ribbon campaign. Acting Attorney General Siromi Turaga announced that Fiji was awarded the Commonwealth Access to Justice Innovation Award in recognition of the campaign’s success in reintegrating former inmates into society.
“This is a proud moment for Fiji,” Turaga expressed, acknowledging the contributions of both past and present members of the Fiji Corrections Services and previous governments. He emphasized the importance of listening to former inmates, whose experiences can positively influence their communities after incarceration.
“It is vital for us to consider the voices of those inmates. There is often a tendency to overlook them,” Turaga stated. He believes that focusing on these voices is a powerful step forward for the rehabilitation process.
The Yellow Ribbon campaign, which was initiated in October 2008 by Desmond Chin from the Singapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprise, aims to raise awareness and support for the rehabilitation of inmates. To celebrate this initiative, an annual Yellow Ribbon walk is organized, showcasing community support for the reintegration of former inmates.
This acknowledgment not only highlights Fiji’s commitment to justice and rehabilitation but also sets a hopeful precedent for other nations looking to improve their own correctional systems.
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