In a powerful show of unity, churches throughout Fiji have committed to addressing the country’s escalating drug crisis through collaborative efforts with government entities. This resolution was made during the National Ecumenical Workshop on a Pastoral Response to Drugs, held by the Fiji Council of Churches in Suva. Religious leaders joined forces with officials, recognizing the seriousness of the situation as “a tough, tough, tough fight.”
In a joint statement, the various denominations defined the drug crisis as not just a criminal issue, but a complex health, social, spiritual, and cultural emergency that threatens the community’s identity and sense of belonging.
Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, highlighted the significance of the workshop, admitting that his participation was unexpected but welcomed. He regarded the gathering as a crucial directive from the Fiji Council of Churches, and praised the existing strengths of the church in tackling this issue.
Naivalurua stated, “The church, in our view, is already weaponised,” pointing to its established structure and its deep ties within the community. He urged faith leaders to act decisively and stay vigilant in the shared mission of safeguarding families and homes from the impacts of drug abuse.
Drawing encouragement from the proactive community efforts seen in Indonesia’s Bali, Naivalurua challenged Fijian communities to embrace their role in protecting their own families and future. He referenced the Fijian value of duavata, emphasizing the critical importance of unity and strong relationships for achieving success in their mission.
The church leaders outlined tangible commitments to the cause, which include avoiding stigmatizing language regarding drug users and adopting a Good Samaritan ethos—remaining engaged, listening impartially, and aiding families seeking care.
Recognizing the limitations of relying solely on enforcement, the churches called for a balanced approach that combines preventive measures with law enforcement. They advocated for enhanced investments in school programs, effective treatment solutions, and solid aftercare services.
Their commitment underscored the belief that “enforcement matters, but enforcement alone cannot heal a nation.” Their unified and compassionate approach aims to transform their faith into action.
To keep the initiative alive, churches pledged to organize annual prayer days and awareness campaigns, maintain open communication with police and health officials, and create localized action plans while respecting confidentiality.
Minister Naivalurua concluded the session by reaffirming the government’s dedication to working alongside the churches. He insisted, “Every step and every action counts in looking after our young men and women,” encouraging ongoing collaboration to enhance community welfare.
The gathering ended on an uplifting note, marked by a shared prayer for courage and compassion, with hopes for the churches to become sanctuaries of truth, support, and healing for those impacted by Fiji’s ongoing drug crisis. This collective effort signifies a promising and compassionate step toward tackling a pervasive issue, inspiring hope for a healthier future for the nation.