Child Bill Passed

Parliament last night passed the Child Justice Act 2024 and the Fiji Child Care and Protection Act 2024.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya said the new law catapulted Fijians from old ways of thinking that kept crime rates the same, and left children without rights, to a new safer Fiji.

Ms Tabuya said the Act would stop children charged for a crime from re-offend, but instead become better citizens.

“This is because the Act finally responds to why children come into contact with the law; based on the research and science about what stops children from offending,” she said.

“One of the most significant aspects of this Act is the focus on diversion and the raising of the age of criminal responsibility. As we embrace this important step, it’s essential to recognise how the Child Justice Act works hand-in-hand with the Fiji Child Care and Protection Bill.”

Ms Tabuya said these two pieces of legislation created a comprehensive framework designed to protect and nurture children, ensuring they receive the support and protection they deserved.

She said the Child Care and Protection Act set the foundation for the rights and welfare of children in Fiji.

“It establishes vital protections against abuse and neglect, emphasizing the need for safe, loving family environments where children can thrive.

“By raising the age of criminal responsibility and focusing on diversion, the Child Justice Act complements these protections by ensuring that children who find themselves in conflict with the law are heard, and the circumstances that led to their offending in the first place, are addressed.”

Ministerial Plea

“To my Ministerial colleagues in both police and justice, I pledge to support your Ministries in the policy and cultural changes demanded by this new law,” Ms Tabuya said.

“For police, this will mean officers need to be confident and adept at safely engaging with children, to properly understand their circumstances, and to engage with my staff in offering diversion.

“Ministry of Justice, your role in training legal professionals and law enforcement on the principles of this new Act is vital.”

Ms Tabuya said government agencies must ensure that everyone involved understood the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.

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