The number of children residing in residential care homes is on the rise in Fiji, according to statements made by the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Ms. Tabuya. During her push for the Childcare and Protection Bill 2024 in Parliament this week, she highlighted findings from the UN Committee monitoring the Child Rights Convention.
Ms. Tabuya pointed out that many children end up in residential care due to neglect or abuse from family members. She expressed deep concern over the extended periods these children spend in such facilities, often lacking love and support from their families and communities.
The Minister emphasized the importance of the Childcare and Protection Bill, stating that it focuses on family preservation and promotes family-based care. This legislation seeks to acknowledge the critical role that parents and communities play in safeguarding children’s well-being. It also aims to differentiate between children in need of care and those in conflict with the law, noting that current protective laws allow government intervention only after abuse has occurred, which is often too late to make a significant difference.
She highlighted that the Bill incorporates prevention strategies, including early intervention, which encourages collaboration among children, their families, and community leaders in care planning. The emphasis is placed on kinship and family-based care options.
Ms. Tabuya declared the Bill as revolutionary and transformative, insisting that early prevention and intervention strategies are essential to breaking the cycle of abuse in Fiji.
This initiative offers hope for a better future for vulnerable children in Fiji, as it seeks to create a supportive environment that emphasizes family and community involvement, potentially leading to improved outcomes for those at risk.
In summary, the Childcare and Protection Bill aims to address the increasing need for residential care for children in Fiji by prioritizing prevention, family support, and community involvement, ensuring that children receive the care and love they deserve.
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