Opposition MP Penioni Ravunawa has expressed grave concerns regarding the alarming statistics related to child abuse in Fiji, highlighting that 68 percent of the reported cases involve neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. As the Shadow Minister for Health and a Church leader, Ravunawa spoke to FijiLive about the troubling state of society and called for urgent action.
Recent data from the Child Welfare Act National Database indicates that there were 1,477 reported cases of child abuse in 2023 alone. Disturbingly, 73 percent of these cases involved perpetrators known to the victims, with 50 percent of these individuals being immediate family members.
Ravunawa emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “We need to stop being spectators to this horrifying reality. It is time we raise our voices.” He advocated for broader advocacy on children’s rights and greater attention to child protection, particularly on World Children’s Day, which also marks a day for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
He urged that this day should serve as a reminder to commit to children’s safety and welfare every day, declaring that “our children represent the future of our nation Fiji – their safety, our responsibility.”
In summary, Ravunawa’s call to action underscores the critical need for societal change and a dedicated commitment to protecting and advocating for the rights of children, fostering hope for a better future.
It is essential for communities to unite in addressing this crisis and to provide support systems for affected families. Empowering parents and educating children about their rights can significantly contribute to reducing these alarming abuse statistics. Let this alarming situation inspire a movement towards safety and care for the most vulnerable members of society.
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