Online Safety Commission Expands Efforts to Tackle Online Abuse and Protect Children in Fiji

The Online Safety Commission (OSC) is stepping up its efforts to address the rise in online abuse and technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), with new initiatives aimed at improving access to safety services across Fiji.

In a statement issued on June 6, OSC Commissioner Filipo Batiwale announced that a new office will soon be established in the Western Division. While the exact location is yet to be confirmed, the move marks a significant step in bringing support closer to families outside of Suva.

“We’ve listened to the heartfelt concerns from families, parents, young people, and communities across Fiji,” Batiwale said. “People want to feel safe online, to know that there’s someone they can turn to when harm happens, and we are responding to that call.”

The OSC has also reinforced its collaboration with the Fiji Police Force under an existing Memorandum of Understanding. Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu welcomed the strengthened partnership, saying it reflects a shared commitment to tackling digital harms across borders.

“Collaboration and sharing of resources is the way forward in combatting digital threats transcending our borders,” Tudravu said. “The Fiji Police Force is appreciative of the OSC’s move to expand its capabilities, as we also stand to benefit greatly under the current MOU.”

In line with broader international child protection efforts, the OSC has partnered with the U.S.-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). One OSC staff member is now working closely with the Fiji Police Force and embedded with the team to handle reports of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) submitted by NCMEC.

Commissioner Batiwale raised serious concerns about the growing presence of AI-generated child exploitation material, stating that the OSC is “unwavering in our commitment to protect Fijian children in the digital environment.”

“Our work with NCMEC and Fiji Police ensures a fast, coordinated, and accountable response to these serious threats,” he said.

Plans are underway to formalise a Memorandum of Understanding with NCMEC, aimed at enhancing intelligence-sharing and boosting Fiji’s capability to respond to online child exploitation.

The OSC reaffirmed its commitment to building a safer digital space in Fiji—one that protects the dignity and privacy of all users, especially children and vulnerable communities.