The number of children residing in residential care homes is on the rise in Fiji, according to the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Ms. Tabuya. This alarming trend was highlighted during her push for the passage of the Childcare and Protection Bill 2024 in Parliament this week, following reports from the UN Committee monitoring the Child Rights Convention.
Ms. Tabuya emphasized that many children end up in residential care due to neglect or abuse from their families, resulting in prolonged periods away from a nurturing environment. She stated that this situation cannot continue as it deprives children of the love and support they need from their families and communities.
The proposed Childcare and Protection Bill is seen as vital in addressing these issues. It aims to prioritize the preservation of families and promote family-based care solutions. The bill reaffirms the essential roles of parents, families, and communities in the upbringing and protection of children.
Importantly, the bill differentiates between children needing care and protection and those in conflict with the law. Under current laws, the government can intervene only after abuse has occurred, which Ms. Tabuya argued is already too late. The new bill focuses on prevention and early intervention, encouraging the involvement of children, parents, extended family, and community leaders in care planning.
Ms. Tabuya described the legislation as revolutionary and transformative, aiming to break the cycle of abuse before it can take root. By prioritizing prevention and early intervention, she believes there is hope for creating a more supportive environment for children at risk.
This initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing the welfare of vulnerable children in Fiji, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of family ties in child development. With the proposed reforms, there is potential for a brighter future for many children who currently lack the protection and love they deserve.
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