In a strategic move to boost coordination across key frontline agencies, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran held high-level discussions today with Director of Community Oriented Policing, Mr. Rakesh Chand, and Mr. Joseph Hunter, Senior Advisor with the New Zealand Police and Team Leader of the NZ-Fiji Police Partnership Program.

The meeting focused on enhancing interagency collaboration to better support vulnerable children involved in legal or social welfare cases, particularly as Fiji prepares for the upcoming enactment of the Child Protection and Child Justice Bills.

Key discussion points included strengthening referral pathways for children either involved in or affected by criminal activities, whether as victims, witnesses, or perpetrators.

The parties emphasized the need for more streamlined coordination and timely interventions to ensure that every child receives appropriate care and protection.

Also addressed was the increasing prevalence of drug use among youth and its compounding effects on families and communities.

The delegation highlighted the urgency of early intervention and the role of integrated support systems.

In a bid to bolster frontline services, the talks also explored opportunities for capacity building—particularly in trauma awareness and recovery training for both social welfare and police officers.

Minister Kiran acknowledged the value of the ongoing partnership, stressing that building stronger networks and better equipping frontline workers is vital to ensuring the safety and dignity of all vulnerable populations, including children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.