SAVE The Children Fiji CEO Shairana Ali makes a point that’s worth acknowledging.
She believes there is a need for stronger protective mechanisms, better education for parents and caregivers, and increased support for children who are living with abuse or are at risk.
She said this during the commemoration of Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Day yesterday.
She said the statistics released by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) painted a disturbing trend in the increase of cases involving child abuse and neglect.
The ODPP reported over 200 cases related to child sexual abuse in 2023, she said, and more than 300 cases involving physical abuse or neglect.
The numbers, she said, were not just statistics. They represented real children, each with their own story, each with their own pain.
“We cannot afford to be passive bystanders in the face of this crisis. Now, we are working on the ground every day to support families, to raise awareness in communities, and to advocate for stronger child protection laws.
“Our work is driven by the belief that every child has the right to grow up free from harm and full of hope.”
The organisation has urged the public to join in on the collective effort to end child abuse.
“We need the collective effort of all of us, government agencies, law enforcement, non-government organisations, educators, community leaders, and families to end child abuse,” she said.
“We also need to work towards changing attitudes.
“Often, child abuse goes unreported because of fear and shame, because of the normalisation of violence, or because of a lack of understanding about what abuse actually looks like.
“It’s vital that we educate our communities about the signs of abuse and how they can act to protect children.”
Any discussions about child abuse must be encouraged. It is something that we should be talking about at every level of society.
Child abuse should not be sensitive topic. It must be talked about.
Ms Ali’s call to action is a reminder for us to take responsibility for the well-being of children.
We must be vigilant and proactive in protecting them.
Let’s speak up if we see something wrong!
Let’s speak up if we hear something that is not right!
Out with the culture of silence!
Let’s do something about suspected abuse. Let’s support families in need.
We can unite to end child abuse.
We have the power to make a difference and change mindsets.
Every child must feel safe and loved. That should be the aim.
Every child deserves a future full of hope.
