Peceli Naviticoko 
Caritas Australia and Oceania Safeguarding Lead Filipo Masaurua
Caritas Australia has highlighted the need for stronger awareness and understanding of Fiji’s National Safeguarding Policy at the community level, as many people in rural and grassroots settings remain unaware of the government’s protection framework against harassment, sexual exploitation, and abuse.
Caritas Australia and Oceania Safeguarding Lead Filipo Masaurua said one of the ongoing challenges is that not many people know about the issue or the national policy that exists to address it.
He said safeguarding is a shared responsibility that must be embraced by organisations, donors, and communities alike and not just about compliance but about ensuring communities understand their rights and the responsibilities of organisations that work with them.
“It’s about respect, it’s about attitude, it’s about acceptance, it’s about tolerance, but more importantly, it’s about what we are going to do to ensure that women, children, and vulnerable groups are protected when we come into the communities. When I talk about protection, it’s really about protection from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment.”
Masaurua adds that it is essential that safeguarding policies are not only aligned with the national framework but also owned by the communities.
Meanwhile, the response from participants representing 16 communities across Vanua Levu has been very encouraging and has helped people openly discuss safeguarding and reflect on the expected behaviours organisations should have when engaging with communities.
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