The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) has strongly denounced the recent proposal by the Fijian Teachers Association to reinstate corporal punishment in educational institutions. Commission chair Pravesh Sharma emphasized that such punishment is not only unconstitutional but also unlawful, posing a direct threat to children’s rights to a safe, supportive, and violence-free educational environment.
Sharma pointed out that corporal punishment is recognized globally as a form of violence that undermines children’s dignity and violates their constitutional rights. According to the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, all individuals, including children, are entitled to protection from any kind of torture, cruel or degrading treatment, and have the right to safety and respect in all settings, including schools.
In addition, Fiji’s commitment to international standards is affirmed by its ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which obliges the state to protect children from physical and mental violence. Key articles of the Convention assert that children must not be subjected to torture or cruel treatment and that appropriate measures must be implemented to shield them from violence and abuse.
Sharma recalled a significant ruling from the Lautoka High Court in 2002 that deemed corporal punishment in educational settings as unconstitutional. He also mentioned the Ministry of Education’s Child Protection Policy, which advocates for zero tolerance towards child abuse and mandates protective measures for children.
Despite these measures, reports of corporal punishment continue to surface in some schools. Recently, the Commission received alarming complaints of physical and emotional abuse, including instances where a teacher used a mop to physically chastise a student and directed others to participate in the act. These accounts highlight the ongoing prevalence of violence against students in certain educational environments despite existing laws and policies.
Sharma remarked on the detrimental effects of corporal punishment on children’s health and well-being, calling for a collective effort from the state and various stakeholders to ensure schools are safe havens where dignity, respect, and positive discipline methods are prioritized.
This situation underscores the vital importance of fostering a nurturing educational framework that protects the rights of students. The FHRADC’s condemnation serves as a reminder that positive discipline strategies can effectively replace outdated punitive measures, promoting an educational culture that respects and enhances the well-being of children.
In summary, the FHRADC’s strong stance against corporal punishment emphasizes the need to adhere to constitutional rights and international conventions safeguarding children, urging all involved to actively participate in creating a safe and respectful educational environment. Such reforms not only protect children’s rights but also instill values of compassion and understanding in future generations.
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