The issue of illicit drug use is a significant yet unacknowledged 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 causes of the drug pandemic could lead to rehabilitative justice and redemption.
Her remarks followed a statement from Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, who called for the death penalty for those involved in drug trafficking. Khan-Sharma highlighted that the drug crisis was not solely about substances but also about human vulnerability. She noted that the drug trade exploits the desperation and frailty of individuals in society.
Khan-Sharma argued that assisting vulnerable populations does not mean resorting to extreme measures such as capital punishment. She advocated for rehabilitation as a crucial element beneficial to society. She illustrated the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities that often leads individuals to make dangerous choices, thereby sustaining the system that exploits them.
While acknowledging the severe impact of the drug trade on individuals and communities, she pointed out the ongoing debate on how best to tackle the issue. Some argue for severe penalties, while others advocate for a more humane approach. Khan-Sharma cited the cases of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, members of the Bali Nine, as powerful examples of redemption. Despite their criminal past, both men became advocates for helping others during their time in prison, raising questions about forgiveness and the potential for rehabilitation.
To combat Fiji’s drug problem, Khan-Sharma called for a comprehensive strategy that addresses poverty, provides support and rehabilitation for addicts and victims of trafficking, and fosters compassion. She asserted that the future of Fiji depends on recognizing the human cost of this crisis and pursuing solutions that prioritize both justice and redemption. Khan-Sharma urged immediate action to prevent the drug epidemic from further undermining Fijian society.