Urgent Call to Combat Rising Child Abuse in Fiji

Shairana Ali, the CEO of Save the Children Fiji, has underscored the urgent need for enhanced protective measures, improved education for parents and caregivers, and greater support for children at risk of abuse. Her remarks were made during the observance of Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Day, where she referred to alarming statistics from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) regarding an increase in child abuse cases.

In 2023, the ODPP documented over 200 cases of child sexual abuse and more than 300 cases related to physical abuse or neglect. Ali emphasized that these figures reflect the individual struggles of affected children, urging the community to move from passive observation to proactive involvement in addressing this crisis.

“We are actively working to support families, raise community awareness, and advocate for stronger child protection laws,” Ali stated. She reinforced the belief that every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment filled with hope.

Ali called for a unified response to combat child abuse, appealing to government entities, law enforcement, NGOs, educators, community leaders, and families to collaborate in this effort. She pointed out the importance of changing perceptions surrounding abuse, noting that many incidents remain unreported due to fear, shame, or a lack of understanding of what constitutes abuse.

“To protect our children, we must educate our communities about the signs of abuse and the steps they can take to intervene,” she remarked.

It is crucial to recognize that by working together and fostering a culture of open communication and education, communities can significantly reduce the incidence of child abuse and ensure a safer future for all children.

In summary, while the statistics regarding child abuse are concerning, they highlight the urgent need for community action and awareness. With collective efforts, there is hope for a transformative change that can protect vulnerable children and promote healing and safety within families.