Port Vila, Vanuatu — The Ministry of Justice, Youth and Community Services (MoJYCS), in partnership with the Vanuatu Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (VANGO), recently held a key consultation on the draft Child Protection Bill—a proposed law aimed at tackling child abuse and neglect across the country.

The event brought together chiefs, church leaders, and police officers to prepare for the bill’s introduction to Parliament. Human Rights Coordinator Albert Nalpini emphasized that the bill seeks to promote positive parenting and hold parents accountable for their children’s wellbeing.

A key feature of the bill is mandatory reporting, which would require anyone aware of child abuse to report it. Wesley Borogu of the SHEFA Child Desk Office said this measure aims to end the culture of silence. “We often know abuse is happening but stay quiet. This bill makes it everyone’s duty to speak up.”

While many support the bill, concerns remain about its fit with traditional and church-based systems. However, advocates argue that protecting children must take priority.

Tristelle Garae Coordinator of the Child Destk of MoJYCS acknowledged the bill’s sensitivity but stressed the need for national dialogue. “Abuse still happens daily despite existing structures. This bill can help us change that.”

The consultation concluded with a call for further community engagement and a unified push for the bill’s passage in Parliament.