The existing gaps in mandated agencies are hindering the authorities’ ability to tackle issues related to drug trafficking and human exploitation. Vani Catanasiga, the executive director of the Fiji Council of Social Services, emphasized the necessity of confronting the issue directly.
“When we observe a lack of integrity, it must be addressed,” she stated, urging that law enforcement agencies should be reminded of the importance of acting with integrity.
Catanasiga pointed out that the 2023 United States Trafficking in Persons Report supports the concerns voiced by communities regarding the capacity shortfalls in mandated agencies. She emphasized the need for these organizations to operate free from corruption in order to effectively combat these challenges.
She also mentioned that community education is crucial, highlighting the support from the Asia Foundation aimed at empowering communities to identify and report trafficking without the fear of stigma. Catanasiga concluded by stating that non-governmental organizations cannot resolve these issues independently.