A civil society organization has condemned the idea of reintroducing corporal punishment in Fiji, labeling it a preposterous breach of child rights. Nilesh Lal, the executive director of Dialogue Fiji, emphasized that such proposals undermine both legal and moral obligations to protect children from all forms of violence.
During a recent human rights workshop in Labasa, Lal asserted that the argument to reinstate corporal punishment is flawed and potentially harmful. “We have moved away from torture and physical punishment,” he stated, expressing disbelief that anyone in the 21st century would consider reverting to such outdated practices.
Lal underscored the state’s obligation to respect and protect children’s rights under the human rights framework. He highlighted ongoing discussions about disciplinary methods, noting that even judges in the criminal justice system no longer utilize corporal punishment as a sanction. The notion of bringing back physical punishment signals a broader societal failure to seek constructive solutions to behavior issues among children.
Reports indicate alarming statistics: five out of every six children in Fiji experience some form of abuse or neglect, with 324 cases of child sexual abuse reported in the first half of the year alone. These figures highlight the urgency of addressing children’s safety and underscore the risks associated with reintroducing corporal punishment—whether in schools or at home.
Pravesh Sharma, chairperson of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, echoed Lal’s sentiments, stating that such a move would violate constitutional rights and international commitments, particularly those outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The controversy surrounding corporal punishment serves as a critical juncture for Fiji to reevaluate its approach to child discipline and education. Advocacy for non-violent strategies can foster safer and more compassionate educational environments, ultimately benefiting children’s academic and emotional growth.
Despite the challenges, the dialogue initiated by these discussions provides a glimmer of hope for positive change, potentially leading to a future where children’s rights are paramount and non-violent disciplinary practices are the norm in schools. This movement reflects a growing awareness and commitment to nurturing children’s well-being throughout the community.