Last night, Parliament approved the Child Justice Act 2024 and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024, marking a progressive step forward for the country’s legislation concerning children. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, emphasized that these new laws represent a departure from outdated ideologies that have perpetuated crime rates and neglected children’s rights.
According to Ms. Tabuya, the Act is designed to prevent children from reoffending and help them evolve into responsible citizens. She highlighted that the legislation is informed by research and science that target the root causes of youth crime. A key feature of the Act is the emphasis on diversion and the increase in the age of criminal responsibility.
Ms. Tabuya pointed out the interconnectedness of the Child Justice Act with the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act, stating that together, they form a holistic framework to safeguard and nurture children by ensuring they receive necessary support. The Child Care and Protection Act lays the groundwork for establishing the rights and welfare of children in Fiji, intending to protect them from abuse and neglect while fostering safe and loving family environments where they can flourish.
Furthermore, she reiterated the importance of addressing underlying issues that lead to conflicts with the law, thus ensuring that children’s voices are heard. In a call to action, Ms. Tabuya urged her colleagues in both police and justice ministries to commit to the cultural and policy changes that the new legislation demands. She stressed the need for police officers to be trained to engage safely and effectively with children, while the Ministry of Justice plays a crucial role in educating legal professionals about the principles of the new Act.
The passage of these acts reflects a hopeful future for children in Fiji, promoting their rehabilitation rather than punishment, and prioritizing their well-being. The government’s commitment to fostering a system that emphasizes restorative justice signifies a step toward a more compassionate approach to child welfare.
The approval of the Child Justice Act and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act showcases a significant evolution in the judicial system, capturing a vision for a safer and more supportive environment for the nation’s youth.
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