Fiji has garnered recognition from the Commonwealth for its significant contributions toward inmate rehabilitation through the Yellow Ribbon campaign. Acting Attorney General Siromi Turaga announced that Fiji has been awarded the Commonwealth Access to Justice Innovation Award for its successful efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate former inmates back into society.
“This is a proud moment for Fiji,” Turaga remarked, expressing gratitude to both current and past members of the Fiji Corrections Services as well as previous government officials for their dedication to this initiative. He emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of former inmates, who have the potential to positively influence their communities based on their experiences during incarceration.
“It is always essential for us to acknowledge the perspectives of those inmates. There is often a tendency to overlook them,” he stated. “Recognizing their voices is not only powerful but is also a vital step forward.”
The Yellow Ribbon campaign was originally launched in October 2008 by Desmond Chin, associated with the Singapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprise. Each year, a Yellow Ribbon walk celebrates this initiative, reinforcing the message of rehabilitation and community reintegration.
This recognition highlights Fiji’s ongoing commitment to progressive criminal justice and rehabilitation practices, setting a hopeful example for other nations.