The issue of illicit drugs is a significant but often overlooked crisis in Fiji, according to international human rights lawyer Sabrina Khan-Sharma. The 2021 UK Lead5050 International Champion of Change award recipient emphasized that addressing the underlying issues related to the drug crisis could lead to rehabilitative justice and opportunities for redemption.
Her comments follow a recent statement by Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, who called for the death penalty for those involved in drug trafficking. Khan-Sharma remarked that the situation encompasses more than just illegal substances; it embodies the theme of human vulnerability.
She noted that the drug trade capitalizes on desperation and targets the most vulnerable members of society. Helping these individuals, she argued, should not resort to taking lives. Instead, she advocated for rehabilitation as a crucial component that benefits society at large. Khan-Sharma pointed out that a cycle of poverty and limited opportunities often leads individuals to make risky choices, further entrenching the systems that exploit them.
While acknowledging the destructive nature of drug trafficking, she stressed the complexity of addressing such issues. Some call for severe penalties, including the death penalty, while others argue for a more empathetic response.
She referenced the stories of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran from the Bali Nine as powerful examples of redemption. Despite their past criminal activities, both men found faith and worked to help others during their imprisonment. Their execution, despite their personal transformations, raises crucial questions about forgiveness and the potential for rehabilitation.
Khan-Sharma expressed that combating the drug problem in Fiji requires a comprehensive strategy that includes addressing poverty, supporting rehabilitation for addicts and trafficking victims, and fostering empathy and understanding within the community. She concluded by stating that the future of Fiji relies on recognizing the human cost of the drug crisis and pursuing solutions that balance justice with the possibility of redemption, emphasizing the urgent need for action to prevent further deterioration of society.