Tactical team undergo human rights training

A three-day Human Rights Enforcement Training for members of the Police Mobile Force was opened today by the Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci.

The training is being facilitated by the United Nations Human Rights Office - OHCHR United Nations Human Rights, Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, Online Safety Commission and the Pacific Sexual Gender Diversity Network.

OHCHR Regional Representative Ms. Heike Alefsen said, “Trust building based on good relationships between police and communities is essential to deter crimes and support law abiding and peaceful neighbourhoods. There is a need to strengthen police and community engagements in order to effectively address the root causes of crime, social disorder and fear of crime”.

The objectives of the training are to;

???? Provide conflict resolution training

???? Training on human rights standards of non-discrimination in enforcement

???? Provide a refresher training on the use of force and related accountability under the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

???? Provide a broader understanding of the key obligations under international human rights law relevant to law enforcement officials to enhance procedural justice and accountability for crimes committed during conflicts, including gender based and sexual violence.

???? To reduce implicit bias during arrests and detention, to heighten transparency and accountability

The Acting Deputy Commissioner in addressing the training participants said, “This training is not just an initiative between the OHCHR and the Fiji Police Force, but part of a whole of government approach, aimed at fostering peace, trust and accountability in Fiji and the wider Pacific region."

“Policing Fiji like all pacific island states face unique challenges considering the traditional, religious and cultural beliefs that play an important role in everyone’s lives. So, we need to broaden our knowledge and understand that the policing landscape is evolving, and with the traditional - modernization is quickly encroaching our way of lives.”

The training is in accordance with the joiny UN “Strengthening Social Cohesion Pathways, Human Rights and Women’s Civic Participation” Project in Fiji.