Youth leader warns referendum bill could criminalise teens for speaking out

A youth advocate has raised concerns about a proposed law that would ban teenagers from discussing referendums, warning the restriction could backfire by criminalising young people's civic engagement.

Salote Bulitavu, People's Alliance Youth Wing President, told Parliament's Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights that Section 27 of the National Referendum Bill 2025 needs reconsideration.

The provision states anyone under 18 "must not take part in any activity connected with a referendum" — meaning teenagers couldn't even discuss referendum topics.

What this means for youth:

• Form 6 and 7 students couldn't participate in school debates about referendum issues
• Under-18s risk breaking the law by wearing campaign symbols or discussing referendum topics
• The ban applies to discussion only — not voting, which already has an age requirement

When questioned by Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya about whether 16 and 17-year-olds should be restricted from referendum discussions, Ms Bulitavu said education was more effective than criminalisation.

"I believe you could have more involvement in school to talk about these things and to educate them," she said.

"Most of these youth retaliate because of criminalising such sections or saying, you're restricting this, you're restricting that."

She suggested committees should visit schools and hold public consultations for youth "so they can understand more."

Ms Bulitavu who made her first parliamentary submission on Tuesday, also identified major conflicts between the Referendum Bill and existing Electoral Act.

Committee Chairperson Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure praised her for appearing, noting youth submissions had been rare.

"We need more youth to come over to come and have a say," he said.

The committee is reviewing the bill alongside the Education Bill and Criminal Records Bill.

Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj