FIJI has introduced its first National Child Safeguarding Policy, which the Government says will set a nationwide standard to protect children from abuse in homes, schools, and communities.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran told the Parliament the policy marked “a significant milestone in strengthening Fiji’s commitment to protecting every child from abuse and identifying and stopping abuse that might already be happening”.
She said the framework was developed after wide consultation with government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and community groups, with technical support from UNICEF.
“This policy is built on simple but firm guiding principles,” Ms Kiran said.
“Zero tolerance – abuse, neglect and exploitation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“Child-centred, the voices and rights of children must be respected, and their best interests must always guide decisions.
“Shared responsibility, safeguarding children is not the job of the Government alone, it is the duty of every individual and organisation. Those who fail to safeguard children have to face the consequences.”
Ms Kiran highlighted the urgency of the reforms.
“Last year alone, the ministry received 1977 child welfare cases; 63 per cent of all sexual offences in the past year were against children, including 29 infants below the age of five years,” she said.
Ms Kiran said the policy required safe environments, child-safe recruitment, staff training, risk assessments, and strong disciplinary measures.
“The message of this Government is firm, protecting children is not optional, it is non-negotiable,” she added.
