The ongoing debate over corporal punishment in Fiji has intensified, particularly following remarks made by Permanent Secretary for Justice Selina Kuruleca during the National Conversation on Corporal Punishment. Kuruleca referenced the World Health Organization’s 2022 findings, highlighting that corporal punishment disrupts children’s learning processes by shifting their brains from learning to survival mode.
Kuruleca, who has experience as both a psychotherapist and schoolteacher, explained that even minor physical punishment can activate the amygdala, leading to cortisol surges and a halt in the ability to absorb information. She described how what may appear as discipline actually fosters fear and mistrust, with children focusing on avoiding pain rather than understanding right from wrong. Repeated exposure to physical punishment, she cautioned, could rewire a child’s brain, potentially resulting in long-term emotional and behavioral issues, including increased aggression and anxiety.
The discussion is particularly timely, addressing recent calls from the Fijian Teachers Association to reintroduce corporal punishment in schools. These proposals have attracted strong opposition from numerous child welfare advocates and organizations, such as Save the Children Fiji. The organization’s CEO, Shairana Ali, condemned any suggestions of reinstating corporal punishment as a violation of children’s rights, calling it illegal and harmful. Ali’s stance echoes findings from the MICS Plus 2024–2025 survey, which reported that 68% of Fijian children aged 1 to 14 have experienced forms of violent discipline.
Advocates for non-violent methods of discipline argue that the reintroduction of corporal punishment could perpetuate a culture of violence and regression in societal values regarding child-rearing. Leaders like Nilesh Lal from Dialogue Fiji and Pravesh Sharma from the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission have emphasized the detrimental effects of physical punishment, noting its ties to increased antisocial behavior and mental health issues.
The dire statistics on child safety in Fiji are a driving force behind the discourse. Reports suggest that five out of six children in Fiji experience abuse or neglect, intensifying the argument against corporal punishment, which many believe would only exacerbate existing challenges.
While the calls for corporal punishment reflect some frustration within the educational system, particularly stemming from inadequate resources and support for teachers, there remains a fortifying hope within advocacy circles. The growing dialogue promotes the adoption of non-violent, supportive approaches to discipline, which can lead to healthier learning environments and ultimately bolster children’s emotional well-being.
This ongoing conversation signals a vital opportunity for Fiji to reassess its disciplinary practices, striving for a future where children can flourish in safe, nurturing educational settings. The push for reform reflects a broader commitment to child protection and enhanced educational outcomes, fostering a more compassionate society that honors the rights and dignity of all children.
Leave a comment