The issue of illicit drugs is identified as a silent crisis in Fiji, according to international human rights lawyer Sabrina Khan-Sharma. The 2021 UK Lead5050 International Champion of Change award recipient believes that addressing the underlying exploitation driving the drug epidemic is essential, as well as pursuing rehabilitative justice aimed at redemption.
Her remarks follow a call from Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, for the death penalty for drug traffickers. Khan-Sharma emphasized that the problem transcends mere substance abuse and highlights human vulnerability. She pointed out that the drug trade exploits those who are desperate and marginalized.
Khan-Sharma argued that aiding vulnerable individuals should not involve lethal measures. She highlighted the importance of rehabilitation, which she views as beneficial for society as a whole. She described the situation as a damaging cycle where poverty and limited opportunities push individuals towards hazardous choices, sustaining the very systems that take advantage of them.
While acknowledging the severity of drug-related crimes and their impact on individuals and communities, she noted the continued challenge of finding effective solutions. She referenced the complex debate surrounding punitive versus compassionate approaches, noting the transformative stories of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran from the Bali Nine. Despite their past affiliations with drug trafficking, both men found a sense of purpose and faith while in prison, working to assist others.
Khan-Sharma raised concerns over their execution, questioning the principles of forgiveness and rehabilitation. She stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy to combat drug problems in Fiji, which includes addressing poverty, offering support and rehabilitation for addicts and victims of trafficking, and promoting compassion and understanding.
She concluded by stating that Fiji’s future depends on recognizing the human impact of the drug crisis and striving for solutions that prioritize both justice and redemption. Her call for urgent action emphasizes the need to prevent the drug pandemic from further weakening the foundations of Fijian society.