The Fijian government is actively working to address delays in its adoption system, which has left over 400 children without permanent families. To tackle this issue, Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has introduced the Adoption Amendment Bill 2025. This proposed legislation aims to simplify legal and procedural processes to expedite court proceedings and alleviate the backlog of cases.
As of October 2025, there are 194 pending cases within the Department of Children, in addition to 212 cases reported from 2024 and 61 from the current year. This total indicates that more than 400 children are still awaiting placement in stable homes. Minister Kiran emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “All in all, more than 400 children who could be placed in stable homes are being denied this opportunity.”
The Adoption Amendment Bill 2025 seeks to clarify guardianship authority during adoption proceedings and gives the Chief Justice the power to create specific adoption rules while instituting a formal appeals process. This legislative effort aims to ensure that no child has to endure unnecessary waiting periods for adoption, facilitating their integration into secure and loving families.
Opposition MP Jone Usamate has expressed support for the legislation, recognizing the need for critical exemptions, while Premilla Kumar has underscored the importance of addressing the situation promptly. This suggests a collective awareness of the fundamental need for stable familial environments for vulnerable children.
Minister Kiran reiterated that the reforms focus on providing every child with opportunities for belonging and familial connections. As the Bill is set to be discussed in Parliament, there is renewed hope for creating a more efficient adoption system that could significantly enhance the futures of many children by aiding their placement in caring households.
The Adoption Amendment Bill 2025 illustrates the government’s proactive approach to revamping the adoption framework, paving the way for hundreds of Fijian children to find the permanent families they urgently need. Improved oversight and faster court decisions are anticipated outcomes, reaffirming the commitment to the welfare of children who are currently in search of stable homes.