Lawyers call for people-centred Police Bill
Association says policing reforms should prioritise human rights, accountability and vulnerable communities.
Thursday 06 August 2026 | 11:00
Patricia Naisara (left) addressing the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights on the Fiji Police Bill.
The proposed Fiji Police Bill should focus on protecting people rather than simply safeguarding property and enforcing the law, says the Fiji Women's Lawyers Association.
Presenting its submission to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights yesterday, association president Patricia Naisara said the legislation should adopt a people-centred approach that places women, children and vulnerable people at the heart of policing.
She said police powers must be balanced with stronger human rights protections, improved accountability and better safeguards for people during arrests, questioning and detention.
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The association recommended mandatory training in gender-based violence, child protection, trauma-informed interviewing and the use of reasonable force.
It also called for stronger legal protections for children and vulnerable people during police investigations and arrests.
Ms Naisara said police legislation could only be effective if it responded to the realities faced by communities and the people most at risk.
