Fiji is facing a serious drug crisis that is particularly affecting its youth, drawing concern from several community leaders. Ben Morrison, the co-founder of INSPIRE Pacific, articulated the urgency of the situation in a recent interview, stressing that resolving this issue cannot solely rely on government action. He advocates for a more collaborative approach that involves the community and emphasizes personal responsibility beginning at home.
Morrison observed, “Drugs in itself is not a new problem — we’ve always had some form of drugs. However, with methamphetamine (ice), the complexity of its effects on the human body and the ease of addiction are new challenges.” While recognizing governmental initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis, he urges families to scrutinize their home environments, acknowledging that many drug-related issues often originate within the family unit.
He underscored the necessity for community engagement, urging locals to take proactive steps in supporting and protecting their families. “If we all stepped up, there is a real possibility of things getting better,” Morrison said, highlighting that the fight against drug use should also include fostering a supportive community network.
These viewpoints align with comments made by Fiji’s Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, who has shared his concerns about the increasing involvement of children in drug trafficking. This issue, which he initially thought was limited to more urban areas, has proven to be widespread and alarming. Both Morrison and Tikoduadua are calling for greater community responsibility in protecting children from the dangers posed by drug abuse.
This ongoing conversation brings a hopeful message: by coming together to understand and address the root causes of drug use, and by ensuring families are actively involved in their children’s lives, the potential for positive change in Fiji is promising. The situation highlights the necessity for greater awareness, open discussions, and united efforts to create safer and healthier environments for the nation’s youth.
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