The total economic impact of violence against children in Fiji has been estimated at an alarming $460 million, according to Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. This figure comes from a collaborative study conducted by the ministry alongside UNICEF, which was discussed in relation to the recently approved Childcare and Protection Bill.
Ms. Tabuya expressed her concern, highlighting that the research uncovered distressing statistics regarding child violence in the country. The findings indicated that approximately 81 percent of children aged one to 14 endure some form of violent discipline, while 65 percent experience psychological aggression, and 68 percent have faced physical punishment during their lives.
Another critical aspect of the survey pointed to a significant issue known as poly-victimization, which refers to a child’s exposure to various types of abuse. In response to these alarming revelations, the Childcare and Protection Bill aims to proactively address the root causes of violence against children.
Ms. Tabuya emphasized that this legislative measure is part of the Coalition government’s strategy to combat these issues, promoting a national development plan focused on eradicating violence against children through effective policies and well-coordinated support networks.
The new Bill marks a significant shift from the antiquated approach of merely rescuing and removing children—an approach that has been in place for over 50 years. According to Ms. Tabuya, this outdated philosophy fails to consider the importance of children’s holistic development within their families and communities, ultimately disregarding the harm caused by separating children from their support systems.
The Childcare and Protection 2024 Bill was successfully passed by Parliament on Thursday, reflecting a crucial step towards a more supportive environment for children in Fiji.
This move is a hopeful sign that Fiji is recognizing the pressing need to protect its children and ensure their well-being, which is vital for the future of the nation. By fostering a more positive and nurturing environment, the country can work towards breaking the cycle of violence and promoting healthier family dynamics.
In summary, the passage of the Childcare and Protection Bill signifies Fiji’s commitment to addressing and reducing the widespread violence against children, aiming to create a safer and more supportive society for future generations.
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