Cultural sensitivities in Fiji’s Northern Division have presented challenges in addressing child protection issues, leaving many community members unaware of the risks to safeguarding vulnerable populations. In response, FRIEND Fiji is intensifying its awareness and protection initiatives to bridge these critical gaps.
The organization’s Acting CEO, Viloki Gohil, announced that FRIEND Fiji is engaging with 16 communities located in the provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua, and Macuata to conduct vital safeguarding health checks. The goal of these checks is to ensure the establishment of adequate systems aimed at protecting children, women, and individuals with disabilities.
In collaboration with Caritas Australia, FRIEND Fiji has initiated workshops in Labasa, which bring together a diverse group of participants, including men, women, village leaders, nurses, and pastors. These workshops are designed to enhance understanding of safeguarding issues and promote community-level action and accountability in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Gohil highlighted the essential role of community engagement, noting the progress made but stressing the need for further efforts in raising safeguarding awareness. He stated, “We work very closely with the communities, and while progress has been made, there’s still more work to do in terms of safeguarding awareness. Not everybody is aware, and there are strong cultural aspects that influence how people talk about these issues.” Gohil advocated for an increase in awareness efforts within communities themselves, not just among organizations.
This initiative aligns with recent calls from Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, who has urged communities to take greater action in protecting vulnerable groups following alarming reports of abuse. Kiran’s call for the establishment of prevention committees at the village level and the active involvement of community leaders resonates with FRIEND’s mission to strengthen local safeguarding networks.
Additionally, faith-based leaders have recently engaged in training programs aimed at improving support systems for child abuse victims, highlighting a united effort across various sectors in Fiji toward child protection.
As FRIEND Fiji persistently works to empower local leaders and residents to identify, prevent, and respond to safeguarding concerns, the movement reflects a hopeful shift toward creating a more secure environment for everyone. The organization’s dedication to inclusivity and protection stands as a testament to the collective efforts to ensure that the most vulnerable members of the community receive the support and safeguarding they need.