The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran has outlined several key actions her ministry is taking to address the rising cases of child sexual abuse in Fiji.
She said the ministry has brought stakeholders together to begin work on a National Action Plan to eliminate all forms of violence against children.
Ms Kiran was responding to a question from Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu, who asked her to highlight what the ministry is doing to address the issue.
She told Parliament that the level of abuse continues to be a major concern. She said the Fiji Police Force data from 2020 to 2024 shows that child sexual abuse “most pervasive and alarming crime against children in Fiji.”
A total of 4159 cases were recorded during this period, with most offences committed by trusted individuals in homes or communities.
“The National Plan will provide a coordinated roadmap to address gaps, improve service delivery, and give priority to prevention,” Ms Kiran said.
The National Coordinating Committee for Children, revived in February this year, will help lead this work.
She highlighted the ministry’s ongoing child welfare reforms, including strengthened case management through the Department of Children, and the endorsement of the National Child Safeguarding Policy.
The ministry also support NGOs providing homes, counselling, family assessment and trauma care.
She noted also the emotional impact on frontline staff and said work is in progress to support their mental health.
Ms Kiran has urged communities to act, stating, “When there is abuse, someone in the community is watching and knows about it.”
She encouraged the public to report cases through the toll-free line 1325, adding that the ministry remains committed to creating “a safe environment where every child in Fiji is protected and empowered to thrive.”
