Island Girl🇫🇯 :
The drug crisis in Fiji worsened over the years, particularly during the 16 years of FijiFirst government led by Voreqe Bainimarama and Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Here's what's known ¹:
- *Increased drug prevalence*: The current government has reported a sharp increase in drug-related issues since taking power in December 2022. New reports emerge daily, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
- *Compromised security sector*: A National Security and Defence Review Report indicates that Fiji's security sector is compromised, with inadequate border controls and low morale among security personnel, making them susceptible to bribery.
- *Rise of methamphetamine*: Fiji faces a growing methamphetamine problem, with significant seizures and reports of widespread use, especially among youth. This has led to concerns about Fiji becoming a "semi-narco state".
- *Impact on youth*: The drug crisis is affecting Fiji's youth, with rising numbers of school dropouts, increased alcohol consumption, and mental health issues. Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital reports a significant increase in methamphetamine cases, surpassing cannabis as the most commonly used drug among young patients.
- *Government response*: The government is urged to enhance border security, refine customs and immigration operations, and foster greater international collaboration to tackle the crisis. Community awareness and faith-based organizations are also seen as crucial in mitigating social harm and aiding recovering addicts.
The previous government's policies and lack of transparency are blamed for contributing to the current crisis. The FijiFirst government's 16-year rule is seen as a period of mismanagement, which has led to the current state of the country's drug problem . ¹.Vinaka
2025-07-19 05:35:30