The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) has firmly denounced the recent proposal from the Fijian Teachers Association advocating for the reintroduction of corporal punishment in educational institutions. Commission chair Pravesh Sharma emphasized that such practices are unconstitutional and violate children’s rights to a safe and non-violent learning environment.
Sharma pointed out that corporal punishment is recognized as a form of violence that undermines children’s dignity and violates their rights as outlined in Fiji’s Constitution. He referenced the Constitution’s provisions that grant every individual, particularly children, the right to be free from any form of torture, which includes physical, emotional, and mental abuse.
Furthermore, he spotlighted Fiji’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which obligates the government to protect children from all forms of violence. Article 37 specifically prohibits subjecting children to torture or inhumane treatment, while Article 19 calls for comprehensive measures to safeguard children from violence.
Sharma also highlighted a pivotal 2002 court ruling that deemed corporal punishment in schools unconstitutional and recalled the Ministry of Education’s Child Protection Policy which mandates zero tolerance towards child abuse. Despite this, reports of corporal punishment continue to surface in schools, including alarming instances of physical and emotional abuse.
The Commission continues to receive complaints reflecting the ongoing issue, including distressing accounts of students being subjected to severe punishment. Notably, one case involved a teacher physically abusing a student with a mop handle and inciting other students to participate in the violence.
Sharma reiterated the detrimental effects of corporal punishment on children’s health and well-being, urging the government and related stakeholders to cultivate a safer and more respectful school environment. He emphasized the importance of finding alternative disciplinary methods that promote positive behavior both in educational settings and at home.
In summary, the FHRADC remains committed to advocating for children’s rights and a safe educational environment, urging a collective effort to eliminate corporal punishment and embrace compassionate disciplinary approaches.
This issue highlights the crucial need for educational reform and greater awareness regarding children’s rights. By actively promoting positive disciplinary methods, the community can foster an environment of respect and care for students, ultimately improving mental health outcomes and the overall educational experience.
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