The Fiji Police Force has raised serious concerns about the growing misuse of social media, warning that inappropriate content and online abuse are having damaging impacts on individuals and society.
In a statement released today, police said that while the majority of users engage positively with social platforms, the rise in harmful and divisive content is too significant to ignore.
“While those who use the platforms in a positive manner and for its intended purpose outnumber those who are using it in a negative way, the implications the negative posts are having on our society cannot be ignored,” the statement said.
Authorities have acknowledged growing public pressure to take action against content creators spreading hate or misinformation.
“The consistent calls to hold those accountable for the inappropriate content circulated on social media is taken on board and is being looked into by Police.”
“However, authorities also hope for a change of mindset, in particular of those supporting these content creators, giving them cause to post as they are benefiting financially from their platforms.”
Police also highlighted an alarming increase in hate speech, particularly against individuals based on ethnicity, religion or social status.
“There is a rise in hateful comments against certain individuals where one’s ethnicity, religion or status is often subject of intolerable exchanges, and we reiterate the call for social media users to exercise restraint.”
While condemning such harmful behaviour, police also took the opportunity to thank those using social media constructively.
“There are a multitude of platforms that are being used in a positive manner whether it be for the purpose of learning or entertainment, and we appreciate everyone who is using the platforms for its intended purpose.”
The Police called on Fijians to reflect on how online behaviour affects not just individuals, but families, vanua, and the nation as a whole.
“Social media users are also asked to consider the psychological and social impacts their posts will have on their loved ones, family name, vanua, communities and our nation.”
“The impacts are often irrevocable and once online, very difficult to remove.”
Reinforcing Fiji’s national values, police urged the public to uphold decency and empathy both online and offline.
“We pride ourselves in being the way the world should be, and the Fiji Police Force is calling for an urgent change of mindset and online behaviour, as it is reflective of the level of acceptance of such behaviour, that would not otherwise be displayed in person.”
Police are encouraging members of the public to lodge official complaints if they are victims or witnesses of online abuse, saying this will assist in investigations and potential prosecutions.