The Government of Japan and UNICEF have entered into a significant partnership aimed at combating the rising drug crisis affecting children and adolescents in Fiji. This collaboration seeks to provide essential education, skills, and support to empower young individuals to make informed and healthy choices, ensuring their safety from the threats posed by drug use.
With a commitment of USD$5.48 million in funding over a four-year period, the initiative aims to reach over 150,000 children, including 10,000 at-risk adolescents. Additionally, it offers support to 300 children and adolescents who are in conflict with the law, along with thousands of teachers, service providers, community members, parents, and caregivers.
Hiroshi Tajima, the Ambassador of Japan to Fiji, emphasized the long-standing friendship between Japan and Fiji, stating that this cooperation expresses Japan’s strong support for the Fijian government’s efforts to tackle challenges related to drug use and to protect its youth. The initiative reflects a mutual goal of building a society that ensures no child is left behind.
Fiji has recently experienced a concerning uptick in drug trafficking and use, with growing exposure among youth to hazardous environments. In early 2024, Fiji Police confiscated over 4.2 tons of methamphetamine. Furthermore, 2,446 instances of illicit drug activity were recorded from May 2024 to May 2025, including 50 cases involving minors. The Substance Abuse Advisory Council reported an alarming rise in drug use within schools, with cases increasing from 2,400 in 2021 to 3,143 by 2025.
In discussions with students and educators, drug use has been noted as prevalent in many schools, with some children resorting to drugs as a coping mechanism for challenging home situations. There have been calls from communities for increased support, especially in high-risk areas where adolescents face difficulties due to drug use, mental health issues, and family violence.
Hamish Young, UNICEF Pacific’s Representative, expressed gratitude for the Japanese government’s timely support, stressing its importance in addressing this evolving crisis. Young noted that the partnership with the Government of Fiji is crucial to ensuring young individuals can access help across various services.
The project will also offer parents training in positive parenting, effective communication, and creating nurturing home environments. It will provide adolescents with guidance and mentorship opportunities aimed at building their resilience and confidence. Moreover, it will focus on enhancing the skills of teachers, healthcare professionals, police, and social workers to recognize early signs of drug use and to support affected youth more effectively.
Enhanced safe, child-friendly spaces will be made available for young individuals seeking assistance, including designations in hospitals, police stations, and schools. The initiative will be implemented in partnership with multiple ministries in the Fijian government and will include collaboration with community and civil society organizations.
This project stands as a beacon of hope for Fiji’s youngest generation. It showcases an unwavering commitment to providing greater access to care and protective measures that support their well-being and future potential.
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