The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has officially requested that the Fiji Police and the Online Safety Commission take action to shut down the Facebook page, Chat (Fiji). This request follows a disturbing incident in which a child was subjected to hate speech, homophobic content, and severe cyberbullying on the platform.
Loukinikini Lewaravu, Director of the FHRADC, expressed deep concern over the malicious remarks aimed at the already vulnerable child, who is facing significant health challenges. “These insensitive comments are not only distressing but also risk causing further emotional and psychological harm,” Lewaravu stated. She emphasized that such actions violate the rights of the child, as outlined in Fiji’s Constitution and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, of which Fiji is a signatory.
In light of these serious matters, the Commission has formally lodged a complaint with both the Fiji Police Force and the Online Safety Commission. They are calling for a comprehensive investigation of the administrators and operators of Chat (Fiji), urging swift action to prevent any further harm.
This situation highlights the broader issue of cyberbullying and hate speech online, which has been increasingly scrutinized in recent months. A prior incident involving a member of the LGBTI community, who allegedly took their own life due to relentless bullying on social media, underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and responsible online behavior.
The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is calling upon digital platforms, media outlets, and community members to uphold the dignity and rights of children and to act responsibly in online interactions. Lewaravu noted that everyone deserves to live free from abuse, discrimination, and harm, both online and offline.
This serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that online behavior can have, particularly on vulnerable individuals. As the community grapples with these issues, there is hope that heightened awareness and collective action will lead to a safer online environment for all. Promoting education about the consequences of cyberbullying and fostering responsible digital interaction are critical steps toward achieving this goal.
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