The Minister for Policing and Communications, Hon. Ioane Naivalurua, today emphasised the urgent need for a unified national response to address Fiji’s growing drug crisis while opening the National Pastoral Response to Drugs Workshop at the Studio 6 Conference Centre.
Minister Naivalurua said the gathering reflects a shared recognition that enforcement alone cannot resolve the complex challenges posed by drugs and their far-reaching social consequences.
“Our nation is facing a crisis that cannot be resolved through law enforcement alone. This workshop signals that change is needed — and that we are willing to walk this path together,” he said.
The Minister warned that drugs and the harm associated with them are reshaping families, villages, schools, workplaces and churches, affecting how individuals think, cope, relate to others and maintain hope for the future.
While reaffirming Government’s commitment to strengthening policing efforts, Minister Naivalurua stressed that a balanced approach is critical.
“Law enforcement has its role, and we will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations, border interdiction and the removal of drugs from our streets. It is our duty to protect national security. However, policing alone cannot heal a nation,” he said.
Minister Naivalurua described the national response as requiring a balance between what he termed the ‘Black Gloves’ and the ‘White Gloves.’
The “Black Gloves” represent enforcement — including intelligence, arrests and decisive action against criminal networks — while the “White Gloves” represent community-based efforts such as prevention, awareness, early intervention, healing and strengthening families to reduce demand.
“Governments may come and go, but the threat of drugs will remain. This is not only a crime issue; we are confronting a social, moral and spiritual crisis,” he said.
He called for the collective responsibility of all sectors of society, particularly faith-based organisations, to help awaken the national conscience.
“We must awaken the conscience of the church and the nation. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.”
Minister Naivalurua further stressed that evolving drug threats require new strategies and stronger partnerships.
“We cannot continue to fight yesterday’s battles with yesterday’s plans. Today we face a new reality, and it demands a new kind of unity.”
The Minister acknowledged the participation of church leaders, community representatives and stakeholders, noting that collaboration remains essential to safeguarding families, strengthening communities and protecting the future of Fiji.