The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (FTRC) has initiated training programs focused on trauma-informed care as it prepares for national consultations with survivors of political human rights violations since 1987. The two-day workshop, held in Nasese and supported by UNICEF Pacific, brought together over 20 commissioners and staff members to enhance their understanding of trauma and its impacts.
Commissioner Rajendra Dass emphasized the importance of a structured, responsible approach to ensure safety and empathy during the truth-telling process. He described the training as a pivotal move towards fulfilling the Commission’s mandate with “care, courage, and compassion.”
The training workshops covered essential principles related to mental health and psychosocial support, focusing on conducting interviews and story collections ethically. Policy officer Manoa Rokotavaga acknowledged the depth of the training, stating it improved his ability to manage emotional responses during interviews and prepared him to assess his readiness.
Participants like researcher Maggie Kuruwale appreciated the opportunity to reflect on self-care, recognizing that gathering survivor stories must prioritize dignity and protection. The workshop also highlighted challenges such as vicarious trauma faced by professionals in the field, a topic that was underscored by facilitator Father Ioane Sigarara.
UNICEF mental health specialist Dr. Koen Sevenants commended the proactive steps taken by the Commission and indicated that the training groundwork was crucial for coping with the trauma they will encounter.
This emphasis on trauma-informed practices aligns with the broader objectives of the TRC, which also focuses on fostering community healing and understanding. The Commission aims to cultivate a safe space for survivors, allowing them to share their narratives without fear of legal repercussions, thereby prioritizing psychological well-being over punitive measures.
The ongoing commitment to trauma-informed methodologies within the FTRC not only hopes to facilitate ground-level healing but also embodies a collective effort towards unity and reconciliation in Fiji’s society. The expectation is that these efforts will ultimately foster dialogue, promote healing, and contribute to establishing a more cohesive community in the future.
This initiative illustrates the importance of addressing historical traumas through sensitivity and care, signalling a hopeful path for Fiji as it navigates its complex history toward collective recovery.
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