In a recent parliamentary session, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya urged the Fijian Government to expedite the reform of laws addressing cyberbullying, child sexual abuse material, and other internet-related threats. He emphasized that delays in updating these legal frameworks could harm Fiji’s social fabric. Koya criticized current laws as inadequate for managing the complexities of the digital landscape, suggesting that Fiji could look to Australia’s robust model for guidance.
Koya proposed that immediate legal measures be enacted to shield children from cyberbullying and harmful online content. He underlined the necessity of balancing freedom of expression with stringent safety protocols, drawing on the successes of countries with strong protective laws. Furthermore, Koya voiced concerns over the potential misuse of artificial intelligence, which could be exploited to create false identities for malicious purposes, advocating for strong deterrent punishments.
Demonstrating a willingness for collaboration, Koya offered the Opposition’s support to assist the government in creating effective online safety measures. His call for urgency is aligned with Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica’s comments on the inadequacies of current laws, such as the Online Safety Act, which lacks sufficient prosecutorial power against cyber threats. The government is actively seeking amendments to these laws and developing a national digital strategy to enhance online safety, especially for children.
With statistics highlighting the prevalence of harmful online content and threats, the government is encouraged to act decisively. Legislative actions are being complemented by education and awareness campaigns to tackle misinformation and cybercrime. As Fiji works towards establishing a secure digital environment, learning from international best practices while adapting to local contexts remains vital. This approach aims to provide a safe and secure internet experience for all Fijians, with a focus on protecting the most vulnerable groups in society.