Has Fiji Launched Its First National Child Safeguarding Policy?
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Synopsis
Fiji has taken a monumental step by launching its inaugural National Child Safeguarding Policy, aiming to protect children from abuse and violence. This policy sets a national standard for safety and accountability across all sectors, marking a critical moment in child welfare advocacy in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The launch of Fiji's National Child Safeguarding Policy marks a historic commitment to child safety.
- Children make up a significant percentage of sexual offense reports.
- The policy includes essential protective measures for children.
- It aims to foster accountability within organizations serving children.
- The initiative reflects regional concerns about child protection in the Pacific.
Suva, Oct 8 (NationPress) Fiji has unveiled its inaugural National Child Safeguarding Policy, establishing a groundbreaking standard for child safety that spans all sectors of society.
The Minister for Women and Children, Sashi Kiran, hailed the initiative as a defining moment for the nation, emphasizing that it represents a collective pledge to shield children from violence, abuse, and exploitation, as reported by the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday, according to Xinhua.
Kiran highlighted that children constitute nearly 63 percent of all sexual offenses documented by the police annually.
In 2022, this alarming statistic rose to 70 percent, which included 34 infant victims. She remarked on the immense economic toll of such violence, with the Fiji Bureau of Statistics estimating that the financial impact of violence against children is about 460 million Fijian dollars each year (approximately 202 million U.S. dollars), excluding the enduring emotional and psychological trauma faced by victims.
The new policy guarantees that all services pertaining to children are provided in a safe, respectful, and child-friendly manner.
It delineates specific actions for institutions and organizations to avert harm, including a mandatory Child Protection Code of Conduct, child-safe recruitment and vetting procedures like criminal background checks, and customized risk mitigation strategies.
Kiran noted that the policy also offers precise guidance for human resource practices, especially within ministries and agencies that engage directly with children, fostering a culture of accountability and safety at all levels of service delivery.
The launch occurred against a backdrop of escalating regional concern regarding child protection in the Pacific, where cultural taboos, insufficient resources, and underreporting have frequently allowed cases of abuse to remain concealed or unresolved.
UNICEF has indicated that Pacific Island nations experience some of the highest levels of violence against children globally, with many victims suffering abuse within their homes or communities.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of Fiji's new policy. This initiative is a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of our children, reflecting a growing awareness of the urgent need for protective measures. The commitment to child safeguarding is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative that requires collective action from all sectors of society.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Child Safeguarding Policy?
It is Fiji's first comprehensive framework aimed at protecting children from violence, abuse, and exploitation across all societal sectors.
Why is this policy important?
The policy addresses alarming rates of child abuse and aims to create a safe environment for children, ensuring accountability within organizations.
What measures are included in the policy?
It includes a mandatory Child Protection Code of Conduct, child-safe recruitment processes, and tailored risk mitigation strategies.
How does this policy impact child safety?
It establishes standards and practices that foster a culture of safety and respect, directly benefiting children in Fiji.
What are the statistics related to child abuse in Fiji?
Children account for about 70% of reported sexual offenses, with the economic cost of violence against children estimated at 460 million Fijian dollars annually.
