Fiji’s Commitment to Ending Violence Against Children Takes Center Stage in Bogota

Fiji is set to make its mark at the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogota, Colombia, this month. The country will be represented by Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. She will be joined by Natalie Siegel-Brown, the Ministry’s Child Advisor, and Arieta Tagivetaua, the Director of Children.

During this vital conference, Minister Tabuya is expected to highlight Fiji’s commitment to combating violence against children. A significant aspect of her presentation will be the introduction of care blogs, a concept similar to those in Colombia, which serve as support spaces for caregivers and the working class, allowing them a much-needed break.

Tabuya has noted that Bogota, with its population exceeding 4 million, effectively utilizes care blogs to benefit its citizens. She expressed that such initiatives are crucial for a developing nation like Fiji. They would not only improve the mental health of caregivers but also support those attending to cancer patients.

She described the care blogs as inclusive spaces that cater to childcare, elder care, and individuals with disabilities. This concept promises to create safe environments for the most vulnerable in society, enabling caregivers to focus on personal obligations, such as education or health appointments, while knowing their loved ones are well cared for. Minister Tabuya aims to return from this conference with new ideas that can foster positive transformation in Fiji.

This engagement in a global discussion on children’s rights underscores Fiji’s proactive stance in addressing societal issues affecting the younger generation and their safety. By participating in such conferences, there is hope for continuous improvement in child protection measures, ultimately creating a brighter future for children in Fiji.

Summary: Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, will represent the country at the first Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogota. She plans to share Fiji’s commitment to reducing child violence and introduce the innovative concept of care blogs, which support caregivers and the mentally vulnerable. This initiative aims to enhance social support structures in Fiji, with hopes of fostering a safer environment for children.