The National Early Childhood Development Committee (NEAC) is urging stronger constitutional recognition and protection for children in Fiji, calling for early childhood development to be formally embedded as a national priority.

The appeal was presented to the Constitution Review Committee at the Nabua Methodist Church Hall by representatives from the Early Childhood Development Taskforce alongside officials from the Ministries of Women, Children and Social Protection, Health, Education, and other stakeholders.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Mr. Temesia Tuicaumia emphasized that development from conception to eight years of age represents a critical phase in a child’s life, supported by scientific evidence showing rapid brain development during these years that shapes learning ability, health outcomes, emotional wellbeing, and long-term success.

NEAC noted that while the Constitution provides general protections for children, it does not specifically recognize early childhood development as a distinct national priority. The committee warned that this gap can result in uneven access to services, inconsistent funding, and limited support for young children.

Among its key recommendations, the committee called for explicit constitutional recognition of early childhood development from conception to eight years, alongside a clear obligation on the State to ensure all children can survive, grow, learn, and thrive.

The submission also raised concern over violence against children, citing that more than 80% of children aged 1 to 14 in Fiji have experienced violent discipline, including physical punishment and psychological aggression.

NEAC is advocating for stronger constitutional safeguards against all forms of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including the elimination of corporal punishment and degrading disciplinary practices.

The committee also highlighted emerging digital risks, urging protections against cyberbullying, online exploitation, harmful content, privacy breaches, and threats linked to new technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Further emphasis was placed on the rights of children with disabilities, with calls for guaranteed equal access to healthcare, education, nutrition, child protection, and digital participation without discrimination.

NEAC concluded that prioritising children in constitutional law is essential for Fiji’s future development, stressing that early investment in childhood wellbeing lays the foundation for national progress.