The growing influence of illicit drugs has become a critical issue in Fiji, according to international human rights lawyer Sabrina Khan-Sharma. As the recipient of the United Kingdom Lead5050 International 2021 Champion of Change award, she emphasized that the solution may lie in understanding the underlying exploitation of the drug crisis and advocating for rehabilitative justice through redemption.
Khan-Sharma’s remarks came in response to the recent call by Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, for the death penalty against drug traffickers. She noted that the situation extends beyond mere drug use, highlighting it as a matter of human vulnerability.
She pointed out that the drug trade often exploits desperate individuals, taking advantage of the most vulnerable members of society. Khan-Sharma stressed that offering help to these individuals should not involve resorting to measures like capital punishment.
“Rehabilitation is crucial and benefits society. This issue creates a vicious cycle where poverty and lack of opportunities push individuals towards risky decisions, thereby sustaining the exploitative system,” she said.
While acknowledging the gravity of the drug trade, which brings severe repercussions for individuals and communities, she highlighted the complexity of addressing this challenge. While some advocate for severe penalties, including the death penalty, others argue for a more compassionate approach.
Khan-Sharma reflected on the cases of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, members of the Bali Nine, who serve as powerful examples of redemption. Despite their involvement in drug trafficking, both men used their time in prison to find faith and assist others. Their executions, despite their positive transformation, raise important questions about forgiveness and the potential for rehabilitation.
To effectively combat the drug issue in Fiji, Khan-Sharma underscored the need for a comprehensive strategy. This includes addressing poverty, offering support and rehabilitation for addicts and trafficking victims, and cultivating a culture of compassion and understanding.
“The future of Fiji depends on our ability to acknowledge the human cost of this crisis and pursue solutions that prioritize both justice and redemption. Immediate action is necessary to curb the drug pandemic before it further undermines the fabric of Fijian society.”