Last night, the Parliament of Fiji approved the Child Justice Act 2024 alongside the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, emphasized that these new laws mark a significant shift from outdated views that have perpetuated crime rates and left children’s rights unprotected.
Tabuya highlighted that the legislation aims to prevent recidivism among children charged with crimes, ultimately guiding them toward becoming responsible citizens. She underscored that the Act is informed by research and scientific findings that identify the root causes of juvenile offenses.
A key feature of the Child Justice Act is the emphasis on diversion and raising the age of criminal responsibility. This approach aligns with the objectives of the Fiji Child Care and Protection Bill, forming a holistic framework aimed at safeguarding children and ensuring they receive necessary support and protection.
The Child Care and Protection Act focuses on establishing essential safeguards against abuse and neglect, creating an environment that fosters the growth of children in safe and loving families. By raising the age of criminal responsibility and prioritizing diversion strategies, the Child Justice Act ensures that children in conflict with the law are understood and that contributing factors to their actions are addressed.
In her address, Minister Tabuya pledged her support to colleagues in the police and justice sectors to cultivate the policy and cultural shifts required by this transformative legislation. She emphasized the importance of equipping law enforcement officers with the necessary skills to effectively engage with children while simultaneously collaborating with her ministry to promote diversion initiatives.
It is essential to view these legislative changes as a progressive commitment to child welfare and rehabilitation, indicating a hopeful future for Fiji’s youth and a more compassionate legal framework.
This landmark decision not only promises a brighter path for children facing legal challenges but also reinforces the community’s role in nurturing and supporting its youngest members. The laws signify a collective step towards ensuring children’s rights and welfare are prioritized in Fiji.
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