Save the Children Fiji Executive Director Shairana Ali says celebrating International Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect should not be about reflection, but about action.

She says the focus should be on protecting children and giving them the bright future they deserve.

Ali notes that over the past few years, Fiji has seen a disturbing trend of increasing cases of child abuse and neglect.

She points out that these numbers are not just statistics; they represent real children, each with their own story and their own pain.

“These kids are not statistics; they are our children. Today, as we reflect on the issues facing our children, we must ask ourselves what kind of society are we creating for them? What steps are we taking to protect them and ensure their safety and well-being?”

Ali believes that child abuse and neglect are not isolated problems, but symptoms of deeper problems involving poverty, violence, lack of access to education and societal indifference.

She believes that celebrating the International Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect is not only about creating awareness, but also about starting a conversation that leads to tangible and meaningful change.

Ali points out that while the challenges are great, she believes we have the ability to make a difference.