Save the Children Fiji is urging individuals and organizations to stop advocating for the return of corporal punishment in schools and homes, declaring such actions not only unlawful and unconstitutional but also a violation of children’s rights. Chief Executive Shairana Ali criticized recent comments from members of the Fijian Teachers Association, which included alarming suggestions like using leather belts as discipline tools in schools. Ali described these proposals as unacceptable, dangerous, and illegal under the Child Care and Protection Act of Fiji.
Ali emphasized that advocating for hitting children in schools is a serious breach of child safeguarding laws, risking inciting further violence against minors. In her statement, she clarified that corporal punishment is explicitly illegal in all educational institutions under Fijian law and court rulings, and contradicts the constitutional rights that protect children from cruel and degrading treatment, as outlined in Section 41 of the Fiji Constitution.
Moreover, Ali reminded the public that Fiji is a signatory of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ratified in 1993, which commits the nation to protecting children from all forms of violence, including corporal punishment. She firmly stated, “We cannot go backwards. Violence is not discipline,” asserting that evidence shows corporal punishment harms children physically, emotionally, and developmentally.
Ali referred to a recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys survey which indicated that a significant 68% of children aged 1–14 in Fiji experience various forms of violent discipline, with psychological aggression and physical punishment being the most prevalent. The data highlights a troubling reality, particularly for rural and iTaukei children, emphasizing the need for education and a shift in societal attitudes towards child discipline.
Moving forward, Ali asserted that no child should endure fear or pain, advocating for a decisive shift towards non-violent, respectful discipline practices. She reaffirmed Save the Children Fiji’s commitment to collaboration with families, educators, faith-based groups, and government bodies to provide training on positive discipline and parenting methods. The organization stands ready to assist any school, community, or religious organization interested in learning how to foster non-violent approaches to child discipline.
This strong push against the revival of corporal punishment is vital to ensuring a nurturing environment for children, fostering their emotional and psychological well-being while adhering to legal and constitutional frameworks designed to protect them. As discussions continue, there is hope for a broader acceptance of positive disciplinary methods that can transform educational settings, promoting a safe and supportive atmosphere where children can thrive.