A delegation from the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has arrived in Wellington, New Zealand, on a mission to explore the establishment of a Parole Board in Fiji. Led by Deputy Commissioner Auta Moceisuva, this visit is part of a strategic initiative guided by Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, to enhance the justice system in Fiji.
During their stay, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with the Director and various members of the New Zealand Parole Board. Key topics included the legislative aspects, structural functionality, digitization processes, and tackling operational challenges associated with parole systems. The insights gained from these discussions are anticipated to play a significant role in shaping Fiji’s Parole Board policy.
FCS representatives expressed their appreciation for the exchanges, stating, “The discussions provided valuable insights into how a parole system operates in a developed justice framework, which will greatly assist Fiji as it develops its own Parole Board policy.”
Moreover, the delegation explored potential collaborations between Fiji and New Zealand, focusing on technical support and capacity-building initiatives. This cooperation aligns with Fiji’s broader objective to modernize its correctional system in accordance with international best practices.
Fiji has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving its correctional framework, recently highlighted by the launch of the FCS Strategic Development Plan 2025–2029 and the Annual Corporate Plan 2025–2026. These initiatives aim to integrate advanced technologies and rehabilitative strategies, which promise to enhance the effectiveness of the corrections system.
The pursuit of a structured parole system reflects a strong commitment to rehabilitative justice, equipping the FCS to better facilitate the reintegration of individuals into society. This exploratory visit not only represents a critical advancement in Fiji’s correctional landscape but also underscores the nation’s dedication to continuous improvement and collaborative efforts toward creating a safer and more rehabilitative environment for all Fijians.