Fiji’s Children in Crisis: The Alarming Rise of Drug Abuse

The alarming extent of drug use among children in Fiji has been brought to light by Inspire Pacific, a nonprofit organization dedicated to street children. Co-founder Ben Morrison disclosed that every child taken off the streets has been found to be using some form of drugs, ranging from glue and marijuana to methamphetamine. He emphasized the critical issue of “Bluetoothing,” a dangerous practice among drug users who share blood containing drugs, exacerbating the risk of disease transmission.

Morrison observed that these vulnerable children often seek belonging among their peers, which can lead to widespread drug use if one child introduces a drug to the group. He cited specific communities, such as Jittu, as high-risk areas for drug exposure, where children have been drawn into criminal activities to procure drugs. This situation is echoed by concerns raised by Fiji’s Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, who similarly highlighted the rise of drug trafficking involving children across various communities, indicating a troubling extension of this issue beyond urban areas.

Morrison pointed out that these children resort to drugs not merely for recreational purposes but as a means to cope with deep-rooted issues at home, such as neglect and a lack of familial support. “They’re trying to numb the pain they’re going through,” he stated. However, through Inspire Pacific’s rehabilitation program, many boys have found success in staying clean, underscoring the potential for recovery and positive change.

The situation, while dire, presents an opportunity for greater community involvement and collaborative efforts to provide support systems aimed at guiding vulnerable youth away from drugs. It calls on families and local leaders to take active roles in addressing these challenges, promoting healthier lifestyles, and ensuring the safety of Fiji’s children.

Overall, the collective concern over drug abuse among youth casts a spotlight on the urgent need for community-led initiatives to combat this crisis. There remains hope that with increased awareness, education, and community unity, a positive shift can occur, fostering safer environments for the younger generation in Fiji.