In 2023, over 741,000 Fijians aged 15 and older accessed the internet, and approximately 826,000 individuals owned mobile phones, according to the International Telecommunication Union. These findings were presented by Policing and Communications Minister Ioane Nailavurua during a parliamentary session where he addressed the worrying trends of cybercrime currently affecting the nation.
Minister Nailavurua revealed that the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children has documented between 1,800 and 8,200 incidents of cyber theft over recent years. While he recognized the invaluable educational, cultural, and social opportunities technology offers to young people, he also raised concerns regarding the alarming rise in unrestricted internet usage among children and young adults, which is resulting in increased incidents of exploitation and child sexual abuse.
“Child safety is everyone’s responsibility. This is a matter of priority,” emphasized the minister. To tackle these issues head-on, he announced the establishment of a National Task Force dedicated to combating online child sexual exploitation and abuse. Minister Nailavurua also highlighted the importance of using sensitive language regarding these issues, mentioning that the term “child pornography” is being replaced with terminology that better reflects the violation of children’s rights and dignity.
By reframing the dialogue around child abuse and exploitation, Minister Nailavurua is striving to heighten awareness and encourage a more conscientious approach to digital safety among families and communities. He urged societal members to prioritize safeguarding children in the digital era, acknowledging the potential risks that arise from advancements in technology. This proactive measure showcases a commitment to building a safer online landscape for future generations, reinforcing the need for collective efforts in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.