The total economic impact of violence against children in Fiji is projected to reach an alarming $460 million, according to Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. This figure was unveiled during discussions surrounding the recent passing of the Childcare and Protection Bill. The estimate arises from a collaborative study conducted by the ministry and UNICEF that examined the Economic Costs of Violence Against Children.
Tabuya emphasized the startling results of the survey, stating that the financial burden represents approximately 4% of Fiji’s annual GDP. The research uncovered that 81% of children between the ages of one and 14 have endured some form of violent discipline, with 65% experiencing psychological aggression and 68% subjected to physical punishment at some point in their lives.
The survey also highlighted the issue of poly-victimization, where a single child suffers from multiple types of abuse. In response to these troubling statistics, the passage of the Childcare and Protection Bill signifies the Coalition government’s commitment to tackling these challenges head-on. The national development plan aims to eradicate violence against children through well-coordinated policies and referral networks.
The new legislation moves away from the traditional child protection approach, which has remained unchanged for over five decades. Tabuya stressed that this outdated philosophy often disregards the holistic growth of children within their families and communities, and the negative impact of separating children from their familial support systems.
The Childcare and Protection 2024 Bill was formally adopted by Parliament on Thursday, marking a significant step towards fostering a safer environment for Fiji’s children.
In summary, while the statistically significant economic and social costs of violence against children paint a bleak picture, the enactment of the Childcare and Protection Bill offers a hopeful pathway forward. It emphasizes a more compassionate and integrative approach to child welfare, highlighting a commitment to nurture children’s development within their families and communities, ultimately aiming for a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
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