Fiji in Rights Clash Over Calls to Reinstate Corporal Punishment

Fiji Rejects Corporal Punishment, Advances Rights-Based Discipline for Children

The Social Empowerment and Education Programme (SEEP) has unequivocally condemned recent public calls in Fiji to reinstate corporal punishment, a move seen as detrimental to the progress made in protecting children’s rights. Chantelle Khan, Executive Director of SEEP and a Human Rights Commissioner, stressed that such a proposal undermines fundamental achievements in safeguarding children’s dignity and contradicts both local laws and international human rights agreements.

Khan clarified that corporal punishment should not be seen as a valid form of discipline but rather as an act of violence. She articulated, “We cannot teach respect through fear, nor promote learning through pain,” advocating for a more compassionate approach to disciplining children. The Fijian Constitution offers explicit protections against cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment of children. This commitment is further highlighted by Fiji’s adherence to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which mandates the government to shield minors from all forms of physical and mental violence.

The detrimental impacts of corporal punishment are well-documented, with the World Health Organization estimating that approximately 1.2 billion children worldwide are subjected to such punitive measures annually. Research consistently showcases a lack of evidence supporting the effectiveness of corporal punishment, linking it instead to adverse outcomes such as heightened aggression, anxiety, depression, and lower academic performance. Khan warned that endorsing corporal punishment would worsen these issues, infringing on children’s rights and damaging the critical trust between caregivers, educators, and the youth.

Organizations like Save the Children Fiji have also voiced strong opposition against the reintroduction of corporal punishment, highlighting not only its legal implications but also the serious risks it poses to children’s well-being and development. Reflecting on the urgency of the situation, CEO Shairana Ali pointed out that a significant number of children in Fiji are subjected to violent disciplinary measures.

In light of these concerns, SEEP, along with various advocacy groups, is urging leaders, educators, and communities to reaffirm Fiji’s dedication to non-violent, rights-based disciplinary practices. These initiatives promote public education and parenting programs centered on fostering empathy, communication, and mutual respect. The movement towards more positive methods of discipline is seen as a hopeful stride towards nurturing a safe, supportive environment for children, where they can flourish without fear of violence, ultimately contributing to healthier communities characterized by respect and understanding.

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