Drug laws must put children first, UNICEF tells Fiji

“Children must come first in Fiji’s fight against drugs.”

This is the strong message from UNICEF representative Hamish Young as the country moves to strengthen its drug laws.

Speaking at the Counter Narcotics Bill Validation Workshop, Mr Young warned that the growing drug crisis is placing children and young people at serious risk.

“Children and adolescents are increasingly being exposed to drugs. Fiji is no exception, and the impact is deeply concerning,” he said.

Mr Young said drug exposure is linked to serious issues including violence, exploitation, school dropouts and mental health problems.

In some cases, children are not only using drugs but are also being used in drug-related activities.

“This also puts pressure on families, communities and frontline services such as police and social workers, many of which are already stretched,” he said.

Mr Young stressed that the new Counter Narcotics Bill must go beyond enforcement and place strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention.

The proposed law includes plans to establish a Counter Narcotics Bureau to lead and coordinate Fiji’s national response to drugs, from enforcement to rehabilitation.

However, UNICEF is calling for a stronger child-focused approach within this system.

Mr Young also highlighted gaps in existing services, noting that access to counselling, rehabilitation and community support remains limited in many areas, despite reforms under the Child Justice Act 2024.

The workshop is expected to help finalise the bill before it is submitted to Cabinet.

Mr Young said the outcome must ensure Fiji’s children are protected now and in the future.

“Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported and free from drug-related harm,” he said.

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