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Fiji’s Hidden Drug Crisis: Are Parents to Blame?

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Parents need to confront their own failures in relation to their children’s drug use, as the growing drug crisis can’t only be attributed to authorities. This message was emphasized during a recent Speaker’s Debate in Suva, where lawmakers, academic experts, and representatives from various organizations discussed the significant influence parents have on their children.

Shairana Ali, the CEO of Save the Children Fiji, was a key speaker at the event. She advocated for stricter laws and more funding for programs aimed at preventing drug use among youth. Ali shared alarming statistics indicating a rise in child deaths due to methamphetamine overdoses, alongside reports of children engaging in drug-related activities like glue sniffing and selling drugs.

Ali pointed out that these behaviors often arise from homes where drug use is normalized. She mentioned that many children are skipping school to earn money for drug pushers, exposing them to higher risks of violence and greater chances of involvement in drug abuse. This cycle contributes to unstable family environments, often leaving children without parents due to incarceration linked to drug offenses.

Ali stressed the urgent need for rehabilitation and prevention strategies, highlighting the importance of understanding the root causes of children’s drug exposure—such as broken families and peer pressure. Additionally, she called for better resources and support from governmental agencies and community organizations to combat substance abuse effectively.

Echoing these sentiments, Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma noted that drugs have become deeply embedded in society, worsened by a lack of access to mental health resources. He advocated for a return to discipline in schools and emphasized that parents must be held responsible alongside the community in tackling this issue.

Dr. Odille Chang from Fiji National University reported a significant increase in drug-related offenses, indicating that the problem is escalating and requires community involvement to craft culturally relevant solutions. She announced a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Health to establish a community-based drug recovery facility aimed at improving education and support for those affected.

Overall, the discussions underscore a collective responsibility to address Fiji’s drug crisis. By investing in preventive measures, engaging community members, and fostering open dialogues, there is hope for a brighter future for the affected youth and families.

In summary, the ongoing dialogue highlights that combating drug issues is not solely dependent on institutional action but requires active participation from parents, communities, and relevant organizations to create sustainable change and protect future generations. The drive towards holistic solutions can ultimately foster resilience against the challenges posed by substance abuse.


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