Save the Children Fiji chief executive Shairana Ali has labelled the recent reported incidents of children sexually abusing children as “deeply concerning and sad”.
“We urge relevant authorities to conduct swift investigations,” Ms Ali said. “Sexual abuse is a clear violation of children’s rights to safety, protection and wellbeing.
“The most effective way to prevent such incidents is through primary prevention programs at the individual, family, community and society as a whole.’
Ms Ali said their focus was always on preventing such heinous acts against children from happening in the first place, through child protection and child safeguarding trainings in communities.
She has also called on every member of the community to be empowered, understand the risks and educate children on tips to keep them safe at all times.
Ms Ali said it was vital for members of the community to report any suspicious acts by individuals or if they witness or feel that someone’s behaviour and attitude towards children was inappropriate and might put the child in harm’s way.
“It is important to recognise the risks and mitigate such risks which helps reduce children’s vulnerability to sexual abuse. Report inappropriate behaviour by adults to the police.
“Always supervise children. If a child complains that they do not feel comfortable around an adult, the parent must act on it.”
