Drug and alcohol abuse exacerbates violence against children – FBC News

Last year, 1,477 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported in Fiji, of which 68 percent involved neglect, physical and sexual violence.

Nasinu Suluweti Divisional Social Welfare Officer Waiqalicakiwata from the Children’s Department highlighted the surprising figures at the launch of the Central Division’s week-long awareness campaign targeting school-age children and young people.

He says a significant number of incidents occurred in the family home and statistics show that issues such as substance abuse, child abuse and neglect are deeply intertwined.

A social welfare official says this highlights the reality that children from abusive homes fall into dangerous cycles that are influenced by both the effects of drug abuse and the abuse itself.

“When a parent or caregiver struggles with substance abuse, they may become less attentive to the child’s emotional needs. They do not provide adequate food, shelter and supervision and may even engage in aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, perpetrators of violence are often those who should be your most trusted family members, caregivers or close relatives.”

Waiqalicakiwata says a key part of the drug awareness campaign is to highlight the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect, as every child deserves to grow up in an environment where they are loved, supported and protected.

She urged parents and the elderly to break the cycle of drug and alcohol abuse.

The social welfare official encouraged everyone to seek help through community programs and counseling services as this can go a long way in preventing child abuse.