Parliament is set to engage in a crucial debate regarding the Adoption (Amendment) Bill 2025 today. This new legislation aims to enhance the framework for child protection and streamline the adoption process in Fiji, responding to the urgent need for reform highlighted by significant delays and backlogs in current adoption proceedings.
Minister for Children Sashi Kiran introduced the Bill yesterday, proposing amendments to the Adoption Act of 2020 that would empower courts with greater authority in appointing guardians. Among the key provisions is the introduction of Section 22A, which allows courts to appoint a guardian for a child at any point during the adoption process if the birth parents are unfit—due to death, absence, or incapacitation. This guardian would be mandated to prioritize the child’s best interests and ensure that the child’s views are considered during court proceedings based on their age and maturity.
The Bill also endows the Chief Justice with the authority to create rules governing court procedures, as set out under Section 58A, and establishes a formal appeals process. Section 59A stipulates that those dissatisfied with decisions made by the Director or the Permanent Secretary can appeal to the Minister within a specified timeframe. These amendments are designed to promote a more responsive and transparent adoption system, with a focus on consistency and accountability in decisions impacting children’s welfare.
Minister Kiran emphasized in her speech that around 400 children are currently awaiting adoption in Fiji, a figure that illustrates the critical need for these reforms. The Bill is positioned as a solution to the existing procedural challenges, aiming to clarify legal requirements and define the roles of various agencies more effectively. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to the welfare of vulnerable children, ensuring that their needs are met promptly and compassionately.
The backdrop of this legislative effort is a concerning rise in children residing in residential care due to neglect or family issues, as noted in recent discussions surrounding the Childcare and Protection Bill 2024. This context underlines the urgency for reforms that not only address the adoption process but also enhance protections for children in distressing situations. Overall, the Adoption (Amendment) Bill aims to create a more efficient adoption system, fostering hope for a brighter future for many children who are in need of stable homes and family care.