Parents play a crucial role in addressing the growing drug problem among youth, as the blame should not solely rest with authorities. This was a key takeaway from a recent Speaker’s Debate in Suva, where politicians, academics, NGOs, and community organizations discussed the significant impact parental involvement has on children’s lives.
Shairana Ali, CEO of Save the Children Fiji, emphasized the urgent need for stricter laws and policies to protect children, alongside increased investment in preventive measures. She highlighted alarming trends, citing a rise in funerals related to methamphetamine overdoses among youth in certain communities.
Ali reported cases of children engaging in dangerous behaviors such as glue sniffing and drug dealing, often stemming from drug use within their households. She expressed concern that such exposure normalizes drug culture at home and leads to a decline in educational attendance as children attempt to financially support drug activities. This involvement not only heightens their risk of violence but also contributes to a cycle of broken families due to incarceration of parents.
The lack of suitable rehabilitation programs for youth exacerbates the situation, creating a pressing need for investment in prevention strategies to protect the future generation of Fiji. Ali stressed the importance of understanding the root causes of children’s drug exposure, particularly the influence of broken families and peer pressure, which can lead to illicit activities alongside poverty.
In a collaborative approach, Ali called for essential support systems that engage parents, elders, and faith groups to acknowledge critical gaps in counseling and rehabilitation services. She recognized the necessity of open dialogues about mental health and the effects of drug use to combat stigma surrounding addiction.
Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the pervasive issues of substance abuse in society and the dire need for improved mental health services. He insisted on the importance of discipline in schools and the accountability of parents in addressing the crisis, stressing that drug problems require a multi-faceted strategy involving everyone’s commitment.
Additionally, Dr. Odille Chang from the Fiji National University pointed out the significant upsurge in drug-related offenses, highlighting a pressing need for community-led initiatives to develop culturally appropriate solutions. Collaborations with the Ministry of Health are underway to foster community engagement and improve local education and treatment facilities to effectively tackle substance use disorders.
Overall, the discussions reflected a collective recognition that the drug crisis in Fiji is a shared responsibility, requiring unified efforts from all sectors of society. With the right strategies, resources, and community involvement, there is hope for future generations to navigate away from the perilous path of drug use and into healthier lifestyles.
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