The challenge of encouraging young children to disclose abuse perpetrated by trusted adults is a significant concern for the Office of the Director for Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in Fiji. During a recent panel discussion on Sexual Abuse in Fiji, Unaisi Ratukalou, the divisional manager of the Sexual Crimes Division, discussed the complexities faced in these sensitive cases.
Ratukalou pointed out that when abuse occurs within a domestic setting, the emotional intricacies complicate the situation significantly. “In cases where there’s a domestic relationship, the interference is very high,” she explained. This intricate dynamic often results in a small percentage of cases advancing to court, with many being withdrawn prior to trial.
The process of disclosing abuse is particularly challenging for children, who may find it difficult to express their traumatic experiences initially. Ratukalou emphasized that repeated questioning could dissuade children from discussing their trauma at all. “When you repeatedly ask a child to talk about the trauma, they may reach a point where they no longer want to discuss it,” she warned. This reality calls for a collaborative approach with police to ensure that children’s testimonies are gathered in a compassionate and effective manner.
Although post-trial processes, such as submitting victim impact statements, tend to be less problematic, capturing the full extent of the psychological and emotional trauma experienced by young victims remains a significant hurdle. In some instances, the courts have turned to organizations like St Giles to offer expert assessments from psychologists and psychiatrists, helping to articulate the young victims’ experiences more thoroughly.
This issue is underscored by alarming statistics regarding child sexual abuse in Fiji, wherein a notable percentage of victims are minors, often assaulted by trusted family members. The ODPP has highlighted a troubling trend of allegations arising from familial relationships, which emphasizes the deep implications of trust and betrayal in these situations.
Despite the seriousness of these challenges, there is a growing commitment from government and community organizations to create a supportive environment for victims. Initiatives aimed at enhancing child protection and providing mental health resources are crucial steps in the right direction. The hope is that as awareness increases and systems become more responsive, children will feel more empowered to seek help and disclose their experiences in a safer, more understanding environment.
These collective efforts represent a community determined to foster change, highlighting the importance of vigilance, advocacy, and compassionate support structures that enable young victims to find their voices amidst the trauma they endure.