Fifty-four percent of child abuse victims in Fiji are under the age of 12, with the youngest reported victim being merely one day old. This alarming statistic was shared by the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran. In the previous year, the ministry documented a total of 1,977 reported child abuse cases, highlighting that 62 percent of these involved neglect, sexual abuse, and physical abuse. The Northern Division accounted for the highest number, with 543 cases reported, followed closely by Lautoka, Nadi, and Sigatoka with 357 cases. Areas like Suva, Navua, Kadavu, and parts of Nasinu also saw significant incidents, totaling 356 cases.
Minister Kiran expressed profound concern over the dangers children face from substance abuse, violence, and neglect, underscoring that the community is failing its youth. While addressing attendees at the Pinto-Digicel Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival in Labasa, she emphasized the urgent need for a concerted effort to reduce child abuse incidents. Education and awareness were highlighted as the key initial steps in this initiative.
She urged parents and grandparents to dedicate time to engage with their children daily, suggesting that even a simple 20-minute check-in could help identify and address any early signs of issues, including substance abuse. Kiran pointed out that parental neglect and family breakdowns were significant challenges, stating that with commitment and open communication, families could foster healthier relationships and environments for their children.
The growing connection between child neglect and issues such as drug abuse, domestic violence, and mental health was also a critical point of her discussion. She highlighted concerning data from the Substance Abuse Advisory Council, noting that there were 8,903 cases of drug abuse involving school-age children over the past three years. This troubling trend not only leads to premature school dropouts but also jeopardizes the future education of the nation’s youth.
Kiran called on schools and community leaders to establish preventive measures and support systems, emphasizing that combating these deeply rooted issues requires unity between families, communities, and the government. Through collaborative efforts and increased awareness, there is hope for reversing the current trends and improving the safety and well-being of children in Fiji.
This article reflects not only a serious crisis facing Fiji but also an opportunity for collective action to protect and empower the youth, ensuring they have a safer, more hopeful future. The challenges presented underscore the importance of community involvement and proactive measures to foster a nurturing environment for children.
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