Crimes against senior citizens in Fiji have become a significant concern, with more than half of these offenses involving property theft. In a recent parliamentary session, Minister for Women, Child and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, reported that in the year 2024, there were 1,945 recorded cases of crimes against the elderly, with an astounding 62% related to property theft. Disturbingly, many of these crimes are perpetrated by individuals known to the victims, including family members, thereby depriving elders of valuable resources accumulated over their lifetimes.
Minister Kiran also highlighted the broader issue of elder abuse, indicating a rise in domestic violence, psychological and sexual harassment, and financial exploitation through scams affecting the senior community. She emphasized that these incidents are not merely individual tragedies but collective national crises that necessitate expansive national solutions. The minister’s rallying call to the nation stressed honoring and protecting the elderly, viewing aging not as a burden, but as a triumph showcasing the wisdom and perseverance of older generations.
The discussion aligns with previous reports on similar issues. Previously, there has been concern over adult children exploiting their elderly parents by misusing property given to them, leading to scenarios where seniors are abandoned or left in aged care homes. Efforts have been made to address these concerns, such as establishing support networks and highlighting the importance of community vigilance. The Ministry of Social Protection has continuously advocated for legal reforms and community engagement as integral ways to tackle this pressing issue.
Various related initiatives include setting up gathering spaces for seniors to decrease feelings of isolation, providing counseling services, and enhancing social engagement to protect against all types of abuse. Officials have called upon families and communities to recognize the signs of elder abuse and neglect and to act decisively against such acts.
In the broader context of these efforts, Fiji aims to create a more supportive environment for its older citizens. By fostering respect, care, and engagement, there is optimism for significant improvements in the quality of life for the elderly. This collective commitment underlines the importance of societal responsibility, providing a hopeful perspective that the challenges facing senior citizens can be averted through coordinated community and governmental efforts.