Vulnerability continues to be a significant factor contributing to drug use in Fiji, particularly among young people. During a national dialogue addressing the drug crisis, Justice Permanent Secretary Selina Kuruleca highlighted that this issue has escalated into a full-scale public health emergency affecting the youth most severely.
Recent police statistics reveal a staggering 2,400 drug-related cases recorded between May 2024 and May 2025, with a significant proportion of these cases involving individuals aged 18 to 35. Among the reported incidents, more than 300 were linked to methamphetamine and federal-level matters, while 50 cases warranted jury attention.
The situation is compounded by a troubling rise in new HIV infections, with 1,226 new cases reported in the first half of 2025 alone. Kuruleca described these figures as alarming, underscoring the urgent need to address the interconnectedness of drug use and various social issues.
“We cannot discuss drugs without acknowledging the broader social implications,” Ms. Kuruleca stated, emphasizing the necessity of a holistic approach that addresses the intertwined issues of economics, health, and education. She noted that illicit drugs have transformed into a crisis that impacts multiple sectors of society, rather than being merely a fringe criminal issue.
The justice secretary articulated the urgency of the situation by framing it as a child protection and justice emergency, asserting that the rise of methamphetamine use among teenagers signals systemic failures across various support systems. “For every teenager who turns to meth, it reflects that the system has failed to protect them in schools, homes, and communities,” she explained.
Kuruleca pinpointed key factors contributing to heightened vulnerability among young people, including unsafe living conditions, lack of supervision, experiences of trauma and violence, poverty, unemployment, and the normalization of drug use. Additionally, stigma surrounding addiction and the inconsistent delivery of social services exacerbate these challenges, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to seek help.
Addressing these issues with a comprehensive strategy could pave the way for a healthier future for Fiji’s youth, fostering resilience against drug dependency and promoting overall societal well-being. In doing so, it is essential to create an environment that supports young people and helps mitigate the factors leading to drug use, ultimately improving their quality of life and prospects.
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