The total economic cost of violence against children in Fiji is estimated to be $460million or 4 per cent of Fiji’s GDP.
This was revealed in a joint survey by UNICEF and the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection survey.
The study Economic Costs of Violence Against Children in Fiji revealed that 81 per cent of children aged between one and 14 years experience some form of violent discipline, 65 per cent experience psychological aggression while 68 per cent experience some form of physical punishment in their lifetime.
Endorsed by Minister Lynda Tabuya, the research explained how children in Fiji continued to experience abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence on a daily basis.
“This not only affects their physical and mental health but also leads to challenges in education, social services and their overall quality of life,” the study found.
“The long-term impacts are well documented. Children who suffer abuse are more likely to become violent adults, perpetuating a cycle that negatively impacts the economic wellbeing of families for generations.
“Through this study, the total economic cost of violence against children in Fiji is estimated at $459.82million, equivalent to 4.23 per cent of GDP annually.
“These costs include $19.33million in direct medical costs, $14.96m in direct non-medical costs, $140.41m in indirect tangible costs and $285.12m in indirect intangible costs.”
The study showed that while significant, this large economic burden could be averted through targeted investments in interventions that prevent and respond to violence against children. In Parliament last week, Ms Tabuya had said the report provided a basis for their 2022 to 2027 Action Plan.
“It provides a comprehensive analysis of the importance of investing in child protection, the socioeconomic costs of underinvestment and an evaluation of government spending on preventing and responding to violence against children.”
