The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection has issued a strong warning against the unauthorised filming and online sharing of videos involving elderly people and other vulnerable members of society, stressing that such actions can compromise their privacy, dignity and wellbeing.

The statement follows the circulation of recent social media videos showing older people seeking assistance. In response, Social Welfare officers conducted immediate welfare assessments and found that the online footage did not accurately represent the full circumstances of those involved.

According to the Ministry, both individuals featured were already known to social services and were receiving Government assistance along with other forms of support.

The Ministry expressed concern that some of those captured in the videos were reportedly unaware they were being recorded or that their personal situations would be shared publicly.

It has urged content creators, social media administrators and the wider public to obtain informed consent before recording or publishing such material and to carefully consider the impact it may have on vulnerable individuals.

Officials also emphasised that qualified Social Welfare officers should be allowed to carry out proper assessments to determine individual needs and ensure the appropriate support services are provided.

The Ministry noted that Government assistance, including the Social Pension Scheme and other social protection programmes, continues to benefit thousands of older Fijians.

However, it reiterated that these initiatives are intended to supplement—not replace—the care and support provided by families and communities.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran reminded families that caring for elderly parents and relatives remains a shared responsibility.

She said older people deserve to live with dignity, security and respect, adding that while Government support is important, it cannot substitute the compassion, attention and care that families are expected to provide.

The Ministry is encouraging anyone concerned about the welfare of an elderly person or another vulnerable individual to contact their nearest Social Welfare Office so trained officers can carry out assessments and provide assistance while safeguarding the individual’s privacy.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside families, communities, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders to strengthen protection and support for Fiji’s older population.