Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chair of the Great Council of Chiefs, has voiced deep concerns over the diminishing traditional family structures in Fiji. He believes that this erosion is fueling social issues such as drug abuse, poverty, and violence. During a recent address, Ratu Viliame criticized the tendency to place the blame for these challenges solely on government actions, urging a broader examination of the societal changes impacting family values and community cohesion.
He highlighted a troubling moral decline among younger generations, which he attributes to the diminishing authority of elders and the pressures of modern life that disrupt traditional ways of living. Ratu Viliame called for a collective effort from families, communities, and leaders to restore stability. He advocates for regular community meetings to strengthen personal connections among families, as he believes this is vital in combating the rise in violence, particularly domestic abuse.
To address these issues, he proposed practical solutions, such as appointing representatives in each district to improve communication between rural and urban populations, focusing especially on drug-related concerns among youth. Ratu Viliame stressed the need for policies that target the root causes of societal issues rather than just their surface symptoms.
These sentiments align with past discussions during Great Council of Chiefs meetings, where addressing domestic violence and drug use was a common theme. Recent initiatives have also aimed at raising awareness about violence against women and tackling educational inequalities, with Ratu Viliame pointing out that only 30% of iTaukei students graduate from medical school, compared to 60% from other ethnic groups.
He emphasizes that a united communal effort is crucial for creating a nurturing environment for children and youth. Ratu Viliame envisions a future where culturally rooted, unified actions can help build resilient communities capable of overcoming social challenges. His hopeful perspective suggests that with dedicated teamwork, communities can strengthen their ties and cultivate a healthier society for future generations.
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