Children in Fiji are increasingly vulnerable to drug use, leading to significant concern among leaders who believe the nation is failing its youngest population. Recent statistics indicate that out of 2,400 documented drug cases, a substantial proportion involves minors. Authorities point out that this alarming trend frequently originates from negative childhood experiences such as trauma, neglect, and the absence of reliable support systems.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Justice and Acting Permanent Secretary for Women and Children, underscored the severity of the situation, stating that each child who turns to methamphetamine reflects a catastrophic failure in protective measures. “For every teenager who picks up meth, this tells us that the system has failed,” she stated, emphasizing that schools, communities, and the larger social structure have not adequately safeguarded children.
The current landscape is particularly troubling, with Kuruleca noting that child vulnerability has reached critical levels, linking early trauma directly to an increased risk of substance abuse. “We cannot talk about drug use without talking about trauma,” she highlighted, drawing attention to the emotional scars many children carry that make them more inclined to turn to drugs as they grow older.
Challenges around disjointed child protection services, limited counseling resources, and unstable home environments are exposing children to risks during essential developmental moments. In response to these alarming trends, Archbishop Peter Loy Chong has called for a transformation in the language adults use when discussing children, advocating for a narrative that portrays youth as valuable individuals created in the likeness of God.
Chong argues that engaging children in positive activities, such as sports, arts, and music, can foster self-esteem and instill hope. As the alarming trend of increasing drug cases among youths draws attention, community leaders stress the urgent need for prioritizing child protection. This includes ensuring consistent support services, implementing early intervention strategies, and enhancing community involvement in addressing this critical issue.
A sense of urgency accompanies this hopeful call to action, as leaders pursue innovative solutions aimed at empowering children and shielding them from the growing threats of drug misuse. The goal is to cultivate a healthier and safer environment for the next generation, ensuring that children in Fiji receive the care and support they deserve.