Save the Children Fiji chief executive officer Shairana Ali is concerned about the increase of sexual violence in the country, labelling it “shameful” and “simply atrocious”.
She said the statistics released monthly by the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions was alarming.
Ms Ali said there was a need for more community-based education programs to end violence in homes and communities.
“More resources are needed to make homes safe for children,” she said. “Children are only safe at home if the home environment is stable, safe, loving and respectful towards children.
“There was a need for strong adherence to laws and there was a need for strong policies to be designed to protect children.”
She said there should be a concerted approach and a well-funded program to end violence against children. “Also there should be targeted programs to address the root causes that is making children more at risk to drugs and other social issues.”
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya said more work was needed to address the issue. Ms Tabuya said it was everyone’s responsibility to come together as a community to tackle this scrouge.
