The Minister for Women and Children, Lynda Tabuya, has raised alarm bells regarding the safety of children in Fiji, particularly in light of increasing reports of child neglect, violence, and sexual harassment. Speaking on International Human Rights Day, she pointed out that even family sleepovers, once deemed safe, are now considered risky due to rising incidents of abuse and neglect.
Tabuya emphasized the importance of being vigilant about children’s whereabouts, especially at night. She urged parents to adopt a more proactive approach to safeguarding their children, advocating for reduced screen time and creating secure home environments. “Sleepovers with family members are not safe anymore,” she commented, stressing the need for greater supervision.
The minister also spoke about the challenges posed by street children. Although the ministry has successfully removed many children from street situations, the rehabilitation process remains complex and demanding, particularly because some children face drug addiction issues.
Despite these concerns, Tabuya acknowledged the progress made by many children in Fiji who are thriving within supportive environments. She highlighted a need for family members to foster safer home lives, noting that most abuse cases are perpetrated by relatives.
To improve the situation, she called for a collective effort to ensure that homes are safe havens where children feel loved and nurtured. “Our children are just doing their best, they want to be loved, accepted, and nurtured,” she stated, reminding caregivers of their essential role in fostering a safe environment.
This call to action, while highlighting serious injustices, also serves as a reminder of the potential for change through community and family engagement towards loving and protective relationships. By addressing these issues head-on, there exists the hope for a more secure and nurturing future for all children in Fiji.
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