Justice Vui Clarence Nelson, a Samoa Supreme Court judge and former United Nations committee member on the Rights of the Child, has publicly denounced corporal punishment, highlighting its detrimental impact on society by breeding violence in adulthood. During a recent National Conversation on Corporal Punishment, Justice Nelson reiterated that the violent behaviors often exhibited by adults are frequently rooted in their childhood experiences with aggression and brutality. He conveyed the message that when children are subjected to physical punishment, they learn to view violence as a viable solution to conflicts.
“Violent criminals are not born violent,” Justice Nelson stated. “They become violent because they learn it, and who do they learn it from? They learn it from us, the adults.” He expressed concern that experiences of violence, whether at home or in school, further embed the belief in children that physical force is an acceptable tool for control.
Justice Nelson articulated his view of corporal punishment as a form of assault rather than discipline. He challenged the societal norms that too often justify physical punishment when exercised on children, insisting, “Some parents call it smacking. I’ve always called it assault, because that’s what it is.” He pointed out the hypocrisy in a society that would not tolerate physical aggression among adults but frequently rationalizes it against children under the guise of discipline.
This perspective aligns with the ongoing debates in Fiji, where attempts to reintroduce corporal punishment in schools have ignited strong opposition from child advocacy groups. Recent studies corroborate Justice Nelson’s viewpoint, illustrating that physical discipline can lead to long-term negative consequences, such as mental health issues and a perpetuation of violence.
In Fiji, alarming statistics indicate that up to five out of six children experience some form of abuse or neglect, raising significant concerns about the consequences of normalizing corporal punishment. Advocacy organizations, including Save the Children Fiji, along with various local leaders, are staunchly opposed to such practices and promote alternative, constructive disciplinary methods focused on children’s emotional and psychological welfare.
The discussions around corporal punishment in Fiji and Samoa represent a pivotal opportunity for both nations to reform disciplinary practices in educational and home environments. By prioritizing positive, respectful discipline strategies, there is optimism that children can grow in nurturing settings that are free from fear and harm. This concerted effort underscores a broader commitment to uphold children’s rights and develop healthier communities across the Pacific region.