Fiji Rugby Union Launches Safeguarding Policy to Protect Women and Children

In a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) officially launched its comprehensive Safeguarding Policy today at a ceremony held at the Tanoa Plaza in Suva.

The event was attended by a broad coalition of stakeholders, including representatives from the Fijian Government, the Australian High Commission, the United Nations Office in Suva, and various sporting bodies. They gathered to witness the launch of a document specifically drafted to protect women and children involved in the sport at all levels.

The newly launched policy, which has been collated and approved by the Fiji Rugby Board, will serve as a guiding framework for all individuals involved in rugby-related activities. It aligns with and reinforces the FRU’s existing Workplace Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Violence policies. A core principle of the document is that safeguarding is a shared responsibility for everyone who works for and on behalf of the FRU. Its definition encompasses child protection and the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment of adults.

FRU Board Chairman, Mr. John Sanday, indicated the board’s duty to ensure robust governance.

“Rugby’s a sport for all, and it must also be safe for all,” Mr. Sanday said.

“These policies are not the end, they are the beginning. The beginning of a new standard for Fiji Rugby, and a model for sport across the pacific.”

He added a strong warning, noting the policies establish “clear accountability mechanisms, mandatory screening, and zero tolerance for abuse and exploitation,” with a specific focus on protecting children, women, and vulnerable groups.

Speaking at the launch, FRU Acting CEO, Mr. Koli Sewabu, emphasized that the policies represent more than just formalities.

“They are a reflection of our values and our responsibility now as leaders in sport to protect and uplift those who trust us with their participation, with their development, and their wellbeing,” Mr. Sewabu stated.

“These policies have been shaped through a rigorous process of risk assessment, consultation, and collaboration with our partners.”

The Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon. Aliki Bia, was present to deliver the government’s support, calling the launch a “historical occasion.” He noted that the success is not just for the FRU but for the entire rugby community.

“It indicates to our players and fans that rugby will also create a safe environment for everyone who wishes to be part of our rugby vuvale (family),” Hon. Bia shared.

“So, on behalf of the Minister responsible, I would like to take this opportunity once again to thank you, FRU. In delivering such policies, speaks volumes of the hard work by the staff at FRU and the Senior Executive.”

The launch of the Safeguarding Policy marks a pivotal commitment from Fiji Rugby to lead by example, setting a new benchmark for athlete welfare and safety in Pacific sports.