Children in Fiji are facing an alarming rise in vulnerability to drug use, prompting leaders to express deep concern that the nation is failing its youngest generation. Recent statistics reveal that out of 2,400 documented drug cases, a significant number involve minors. Authorities indicate that this troubling trend often stems from adverse experiences in childhood, including trauma, neglect, and a lack of dependable support systems.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Justice and Acting Permanent Secretary for Women and Children, emphasized that each child who turns to methamphetamine signifies a severe breakdown in protective measures. “For every teenager who picks up meth, this tells us that the system has failed,” she remarked. Kuruleca pointed out that schools, communities, and the broader social framework have collectively fallen short in providing the necessary protection and support to children.
The current situation is particularly concerning, with Kuruleca noting that the vulnerability of children has reached unprecedented levels, establishing a critical link between early trauma and subsequent drug use. “We cannot talk about drug use without talking about trauma,” she stressed, highlighting that many children bear unaddressed emotional scars that render them more susceptible to substance abuse as they grow older.
The disjointed nature of child protection services, insufficient counseling resources, and unstable home environments are leaving children at risk during crucial developmental stages. In light of these challenges, Archbishop Peter Loy Chong has underscored the importance of shifting the narrative around children. He advocates for a change in the language used by adults when referring to young people, encouraging a discourse that portrays children as valuable beings created in the image and likeness of God.
Chong believes that fostering children’s identities through positive activities such as sports, arts, and music can help instill confidence and hope. As the alarm sounds over the increasing number of drug cases involving youths, leaders emphasize that safeguarding children must be prioritized. This involves ensuring consistent support services, implementing early intervention strategies, and bolstering community involvement as integral parts of Fiji’s approach to tackling this pressing issue.
There is a palpable sense of urgency and a hopeful call for action, as leaders work toward creative solutions that empower children and protect them from the escalating threats of drug misuse, ultimately fostering a healthier and safer environment for the next generation.