Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, the United Nations Special Representative on Violence Against Children, has issued a significant call to the Fijian Government urging immediate action to confront a growing child protection crisis. Following her visit to Fiji for the Child Wellbeing Summit in Suva, she highlighted critical issues such as soaring school dropout rates, increasing drug use among children, and the troubling proliferation of pornography.
Dr. M’jid emphasized the urgency of taking bold actions, stating, “The time for talk is over. Now is the time for bold, decisive action.” Her remarks pointed to a crucial gap in the application of existing laws, advocating for a more coordinated effort among various stakeholders—including governmental, civil society, and religious organizations—to effectively combat violence and neglect that affects children.
Recent statistics from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) paint a troubling picture, revealing that in 2023, there were 242 reported victims of rape and sexual offenses, with 153 of them under the age of 18. Alarmingly, many of these incidents occurred in domestic settings, which underscores the urgent need for comprehensive child protection measures and dedicated funding for essential initiatives.
Acknowledging the proactive efforts by Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, whom she described as an “action-oriented leader,” Dr. M’jid stressed the importance of involving various sectors of society. Clear accountability and defined roles, alongside community engagement, are critical components for fostering effective change.
To truly enhance child welfare, Dr. M’jid argued that funding must be strategically aligned with actionable policies. She called for resources to be directed toward employing trained professionals in educational institutions and rehabilitation centers, who can accurately identify and mitigate the challenges faced by children. Engaging with the community will help ensure that strategies remain relevant and impactful at the grassroots level.
This call to action resonates with wider discussions about the rise in reports of child sexual abuse and the need for improved support systems for affected children. There is a growing acknowledgment among government officials and international entities of the importance of creating a safe environment for Fiji’s youth.
Ultimately, Dr. M’jid’s message brings a hopeful perspective to the challenges facing Fiji’s children, advocating for collaborative efforts and a united front in the pursuit of a brighter, safer future. The opportunity to protect and uplift the nation’s children lies within collective action aimed at cultivating a society free from violence and exploitation.
Leave a comment