The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has called for the urgent establishment of a National Taskforce on Missing Persons to effectively tackle the alarming issue of missing children and vulnerable individuals. The Commission insists that these cases should be prioritized as protection emergencies rather than being viewed solely as criminal matters.
Human Rights Commissioner Chantelle Khan emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, traditional leaders (Vanua), civil society, and faith-based organizations. This cooperative approach is crucial for ensuring a well-coordinated, trustworthy, and community-oriented response to these critical situations.
“The establishment of a National Taskforce would enhance early reporting and rapid response,” said Khan. The Commission advocates for a child-centered and preventive multi-sectoral strategy, promoting swift reporting processes for missing children and ensuring strong coordination between the Police, Social Welfare, Education, Health, and community services. Additionally, the implementation of early intervention mechanisms in schools and communities is seen as vital.
Missing children face significant risks, including violence, sexual exploitation, forced labor, substance abuse, and long-lasting psychological trauma, often exacerbated by poverty, family breakdown, and a lack of adequate support services. Khan stressed the need to treat these cases as urgent emergencies that require immediate action rather than mere criminal investigations.
She further highlighted the necessity of intensifying efforts against drug networks, organized crime, and trafficking, while also enhancing family support services to address issues of violence and neglect. Improvement in data collection and public awareness, along with protecting the privacy and dignity of victims and their families, are equally essential.
As Fiji is a signatory to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, the Commission pointed out the nation’s obligation to take prompt action upon receiving a report of a missing person. This involves conducting immediate searches, carrying out effective investigations, and ensuring the safety of victims and their families—a right that is non-negotiable.
The Commission cautioned against the serious repercussions that can arise when prevention or protection measures fail, stressing that the state must act decisively to address severe risks to life. “Any delay in addressing these failures or mitigating life-threatening situations constitutes a violation of Fiji’s international obligations,” Khan affirmed.
In a collective call to action, the Commission urged government authorities, communities, families, and organizations to work together to protect children and vulnerable individuals from harm. The message was clear: every child deserves protection from violence and exploitation. Khan poignantly concluded that protecting the most vulnerable members of society is a fundamental responsibility of the nation, underscoring that “no child should be left unprotected.” This proactive stance reflects a hopeful commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all children and vulnerable individuals in Fiji.