Fiji launches First National Child Safeguarding Policy

Fiji has taken a historic step to protect children from abuse with Cabinet’s approval of the country’s first National Child Safeguarding Policy.
Delivering her ministerial statement in Parliament today, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said the policy sets a national standard that all organisations working with children must follow.
The policy is based on four guiding principles: zero tolerance for abuse, child-centered approaches, shared responsibility, and accountability.
“This policy leaves no room for excuses, no space for silence and no tolerance for negligence,” Ms Kiran told Parliament.
The policy requires child-safe environments in schools, workplaces, communities, and online spaces.

“This also demands risk assessments, safe recruitment practices, staff training, clear reporting systems, and strong disciplinary action” she said. 
The official launch is planned for next month, but awareness sessions have already begun.

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