Illustration of Call for Responsible Internet Use

Fiji’s Digital Dilemma: Balancing Connectivity and Safety

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Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, has called on the public to remain alert to the implications of technological progress and improved internet access for Fijians. Her comments followed a recent collaboration between Vodafone Fiji and Starlink, which is expected to enhance telecommunications infrastructure, particularly benefiting rural and maritime communities.

While she acknowledges the significant advancements this partnership brings to connectivity, Ms. Tabuya also expressed concerns about the potential rise in access to pornographic content online. She highlighted that Fiji is currently ranked fourth by Google Trends for searches related to pornography, noting that adult content constitutes one of the top ten categories of internet data traffic in the country.

As the co-chair for the anti-pornography taskforce, Ms. Tabuya urged telecommunication companies and other stakeholders to engage in community awareness initiatives. These sessions should focus on promoting responsible internet and social media usage, addressing the adverse effects of excessive screen time, and providing education on the hazards linked with pornography.

Furthermore, Ms. Tabuya emphasized the need to empower citizens with knowledge and resources to navigate the digital world safely. She warned of the potential increase in technology-driven gender-based violence and violence against children and stressed that while enhancing digital infrastructure, it is crucial to implement protective measures for the community.

She advocated for a culture of awareness and responsibility, suggesting that with the right framework in place, technology could be utilized for the betterment of society as a whole.

In summary, Minister Tabuya is pushing for a balance between embracing digital advancements and maintaining social protections, aiming to harness technology’s potential for positive community impact while minimizing its risks.

This proactive approach highlights the importance of community education and the integration of safety measures in an era of rapid technological change, fostering a culture of responsibility that benefits all.


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