The Online Safety Commission (OSC) in Fiji is ramping up its initiatives to combat the rising instances of online abuse and technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) impacting individuals and families across the nation. In response to public demand for enhanced support and services, the OSC is set to open a new office in the Western Division, a move aimed at extending access to online safety resources for those outside of the capital, Suva.
Commissioner Filipe Batiwale emphasized the OSC’s commitment to addressing community concerns, stating, “People want to feel safe online, to know that there’s someone they can turn to when harm happens, and we are responding to that call.” This new office is part of a broader effort to ensure that all Fijians, especially vulnerable populations, have timely support and justice in cases of online abuse.
The OSC maintains a collaborative partnership with the Fiji Police Force, underpinned by a memorandum of understanding. Batiwale noted that this partnership is crucial for tackling online harms effectively. “The OSC is actively working with the police to ensure that victims of online abuse receive the necessary assistance,” he added.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of resource sharing and collaboration to combat the digital threats that often transcend Fiji’s borders. The OSC and the Police Cybercrime Unit are pooling their efforts to enhance investigations into serious online threats.
As part of its increasing involvement in international child protection measures, the OSC has partnered with the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). This collaboration includes a dedicated OSC staff member who works directly with NCMEC to address and analyze reports of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Batiwale highlighted the alarming rise of CSAM, including AI-generated content, stating, “The OSC is unwavering in our commitment to protect Fijian children in the digital environment.”
Recent efforts include campaigns aimed at increasing awareness about responsible online behavior and the importance of reporting abusive content. The shared commitment to enhancing online safety reflects a positive community response, fostering a safer digital environment for everyone.
The article encapsulates a proactive approach to mitigating online risks, targeting reforms and collaborations necessary to shield vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, from online abuse. This growing awareness signals a hopeful trend towards a more secure and respectful online community in Fiji.
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