Last night, Parliament successfully enacted the Child Justice Act 2024 and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024, marking a significant advancement in the protection of children’s rights in Fiji. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, expressed that these new laws promote a shift away from outdated perspectives that have perpetuated crime rates and neglected children’s rights, heralding a safer environment for young citizens.
Tabuya emphasized that the Child Justice Act is designed to reduce juvenile re-offending by providing a supportive framework that helps children become responsible citizens. The Act is grounded in research that identifies the root causes of juvenile delinquency, ultimately aiming to foster positive development rather than punishment.
A key feature of the Child Justice Act is the raising of the age of criminal responsibility and an emphasis on diversion rather than penal measures. Together with the Fiji Child Care and Protection Bill, these laws establish a holistic framework intended to safeguard and nurture children, ensuring they receive the protection they deserve.
The Child Care and Protection Act lays the groundwork for children’s rights in Fiji, prioritizing their safety in loving family environments and offering essential protections against abuse and neglect. By raising the age of criminal responsibility and shifting focus to rehabilitation, the Child Justice Act seeks to address the underlying issues that have led children into conflict with the law.
Tabuya urged her colleagues in the ministries of police and justice to embrace the cultural and policy changes that accompany these new laws. She highlighted the importance of equipping law enforcement officers with the skills to safely engage with children and understand their challenges, while also calling for essential training for legal professionals in line with the principles of these acts.
The passage of these laws presents a hopeful future for Fijian youth, highlighting a commitment to rehabilitation over punishment. It encourages society to adopt a compassionate approach to youth justice, with the potential to significantly reduce crime and build a stronger community for generations to come.
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