Last night, Parliament in Fiji approved the Child Justice Act 2024 and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya emphasized that these new laws represent a significant shift in how Fijians view crime and children’s rights, paving the way for a safer and more supportive environment for youth.
Minister Tabuya stated that the Child Justice Act aims to prevent recidivism among children charged with crimes, helping them develop into responsible citizens instead. She noted that this legislation addresses the root causes of why children come into conflict with the law, relying on research and evidence to inform its approach.
A key feature of the Act is its focus on diversion and raising the age of criminal responsibility. According to Tabuya, these laws create a comprehensive framework for safeguarding children, offering them the protection and support they need to thrive. The Child Care and Protection Act lays the groundwork for ensuring children’s rights and welfare in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of secure and loving family settings.
In her remarks, Tabuya called on her ministerial colleagues in police and justice to support the successful implementation of this new legislation. She highlighted the need for police officers to engage effectively with children and to work collaboratively with her department to create diversion programs. Furthermore, she stressed the importance of training legal professionals and law enforcement in the principles of the new Acts, promoting rehabilitation over punishment.
Overall, these legislative developments mark a hopeful and transformative moment for the treatment of children in Fiji’s justice system, aligning with global trends towards restorative practices that prioritize children’s well-being.
Summary: Fiji’s Parliament has enacted significant reforms with the Child Justice Act 2024 and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024, aimed at improving the treatment of children in the justice system. These laws highlight diversion, rehabilitation, and the importance of nurturing family environments, signaling a progressive shift towards emphasizing children’s rights and welfare.
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