Fiji is ramping up its efforts to counter the alarming rise in online child sexual exploitation. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica recently informed Parliament about the establishment of a National Taskforce dedicated to this cause. A key component of this taskforce is the formation of an Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Unit within the police force, showcasing Fiji’s strong commitment to protecting children from online dangers.
This move follows disturbing statistics revealed in recent discussions. In 2023, Fiji reported over 3,600 cases of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). These figures highlight the critical need for urgent measures to combat child exploitation online.
The taskforce’s efforts are bolstered by international cooperation. UNICEF and the Australian Government are conducting a mapping study to evaluate Fiji’s current strategies. Additionally, a study mission to Australia is on the agenda, aimed at learning from recent reforms tackling child exploitation there.
Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica emphasized the adoption of internationally recognized terms, such as Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM), in place of “child pornography.” This shift in language is intended to convey the seriousness of the offenses and to prioritize the protection of affected children.
Addressing these issues extends beyond legislative and enforcement actions. There’s an appeal for community-wide involvement to safeguard children both online and offline. This includes vigilance over shared content that may compromise the safety or dignity of children.
With these concerted efforts, Fiji aspires to make significant progress in establishing a secure online environment for children, ensuring they are shielded from exploitation and abuse. The ongoing initiatives emphasize creating a unified and effective system to prevent these crimes, highlighting the nation’s dedication to preserving the safety and dignity of every child in Fiji.