Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, engaged with officials from the Colombian Secretariat for Social Integration of Bogota to explore strategies aimed at combating exclusion, violence, and enhancing child protection. This collaboration aims to address significant challenges shared by both Fiji and Colombia, particularly those affecting vulnerable communities.
During her visit, Minister Tabuya was inspired by Colombia’s 20 specialized care facilities, which provide round-the-clock support for those at risk of violence, child exploitation, and marginalization. These centers not only offer immediate care but also focus on long-term rehabilitation, creating a safe environment for individuals in need.
One facility of particular interest was the Centro Amar (Centre of Love), dedicated to supporting at-risk children and adolescents, including those involved in child labor or who have parents working night shifts. There, children experience a nurturing atmosphere that fosters their development and wellbeing. The center emphasizes the integration of parents in the caregiving process, aiming to strengthen family bonds and promote violence-free parenting practices.
Minister Tabuya expressed her admiration for the center’s commitment to empathy and relationship-building, noting how these elements are integral to its family-centered approach. She pointed out the vital role social integration plays in service delivery to those most in need, stating, “Isn’t that what we want? A society in which everyone feels included?”
Furthermore, Minister Tabuya highlighted the correlation between Colombia’s family-focused model and Fiji’s recent legislative reforms aimed at child protection. She hopes that by pivoting from merely removing children in distress to supporting family recovery, Fiji can incorporate these insights into its social support systems.
This visit is timely, occurring just before the Fiji Government’s pledge to end violence against children and the upcoming First Global Minister’s Conference on Child Protection. This solidarity and exchange between nations underscore a shared commitment to safeguarding children while fostering inclusive environments. As Fiji embraces these models, there is a promising outlook for enhancing the welfare of vulnerable populations and strengthening familial structures throughout the country.
This event represents an encouraging step towards collaboration and shared learning that can forge pathways for improved social services, ultimately aiming for a more inclusive and protective society for all.
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