Fiji’s Youth in Crisis: Alarming Spike in Juvenile Crime

The Fiji Police Force has raised concerns regarding the increasing involvement of children in criminal activities, highlighting a worrying trend where 503 cases of juvenile sexual offenses have been recorded over the past five years, including 206 instances of rape. This alarming statistic was shared by Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, during a conference at the Shangri-La Yanuca Island resort.

A critical point of discussion has been the proposed shift in the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 years, a change advocated by Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, in recent talks with the United Nations representative on Violence Against Children. While some countries have enacted similar changes, ACP Waqa emphasized that such a move could have significant implications for public safety in Fiji. He voiced concerns that this shift could result in a lack of accountability for juvenile offenders, potentially leading to an increase in serious crimes committed by children aged 10 to 13.

Waqa pointed out the importance of maintaining a balance between rehabilitation and accountability within the justice system tailored for children. He warned that increasing the age of criminal responsibility might disempower families and communities, which play essential roles in guiding children toward making positive choices.

To combat this growing issue, Waqa emphasized the need for community collaboration, including families, traditional leaders (vanua), government bodies, and stakeholders, to protect and guide Fijian youth. He called for solutions that incorporate both accountability and rehabilitation to effectively address juvenile crime and promote community safety.

In light of these concerns, there is hope that through collaborative efforts, Fiji can foster a safer environment for children, equipping them with the guidance and support necessary to deter them from engaging in criminal activities. The emphasis on community and rehabilitation reflects a proactive approach to creating lasting positive change within society.