It is devastating to know that according to the National Child Welfare Case Database, a total of 10,111 cases of child abuse and neglect have been reported in the last five years.
As we mark the International Day for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect today, the Minister for Children, Sashi Kiran says reporting child violence continues to increase over the years, and 60 to 70 percent of the cases are of child neglect, physical abuse and sexual abuse.
Kiran says every child deserves the security of a loving family, systems that protect them and the opportunity to grow up in an environment that is free from violence and exploitation and loves, cares, trusts, protects and respects them.
She says this year is especially significant as the Coalition Government has passed, and is now in the process of rolling out the implementation of, two landmark Child Acts — the Child Safety and Protection Act and the Child Justice Act.
She says the Child Safety and Protection Act establishes clearer safeguards, responsibilities, and processes to prevent and respond to all forms of abuse and neglect, placing the welfare and best interests of the child at the centre of every action.
Meanwhile, the Child Justice Act introduces a modern, child-friendly justice system that ensures children in conflict with the law are treated with dignity and fairness, prioritising rehabilitation and protection rather than punishment.
She says the World Children’s Day reminds us that children are not just beneficiaries of our decisions but key partners in shaping our future and their voices and ideas must be heard and acknowledged in the policies, in the legislation and issues that affect them.
Kiran is calling on parents, on caregivers, teacher, faith-based groups, community leaders and every Fijian to stand united in commemorating the national PCAN theme for this year – Nurturing Minds, Protecting Futures.
The Minister says the theme emphasises the shared responsibility of families, communities and agencies in supporting children’s holistic well-being while ensuring their safety both offline and online. She says that across the nation, the Department of Children is setting up frangipani treehouses/child friendly spaces in communities and workplaces.
Setting up these spaces is a practical and powerful investment in children’s wellbeing.
Kiran's message to the children is that they are valued, they are strong and their voice and future matter.
