The Debate Over Pornography in Fiji’s Digital Revolution

Fiji's deep religious values clash with unrestricted access to pornography, sparking heated debate.

Dear reader, the more I learn about sex, sexuality, porn, and intimacy, the more compelled I feel to share that knowledge with you. There is so much to know about this world we exist in, about the cultures of those around us, and the slight nuances that can make it challenging to understand each other, especially regarding sex. I remember how shocked I was when I first traveled to Europe and noticed how comfortable everyone was with nudity. There was a German girl who laughed at me when I walked into the hostel’s bathroom and ran out after seeing her naked inside. It was a shared bathroom; she was just the first of many. I was also shocked in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when I noticed that everyone, regardless of age and size, wore a tiny thong to the beach. But, despite the nakedness, it’s not sexualized. I couldn’t believe there weren’t any men whistling or making inappropriate comments. I only expected that reaction and felt uncomfortable with casual European nudity because of my history and life experiences. I come from a place where all public nudity is, first, illegal and, second, highly frowned upon. From an old-school, conservative, and somewhat sexist culture where you are very likely to be considered an attention-seeking-slut for showing your butt on the beach.

I have evolved, and so does everyone who decides to explore sexuality and pleasure. However, while some cultures are advanced in their understanding of sex and sexual education, some prioritize religious and conservative approaches to the topic. One of these countries is Fiji. A recent headline read: “One telco says Fijians used 626.13 terabytes of data watching porn last quarter. Politicians are united in stamping it out.” Fiji is a magical and wonderful place where people are welcoming and kind. Its culture results from Fiji’s indigenous community and Indian, European, Chinese, Tongan, Rotuman, and Polynesian influences. Religion in the islands is quite diverse, and Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam are the most prevalent. As I always say, respect is the most critical part of understanding. And while our world continues to evolve in its understanding of sex and all the different ways in which we can enjoy our sexualities, some countries, like Fiji, aren’t ready to consider porn a natural part of that process.

The island nation of Fiji, known for its deep religiosity and strong cultural values, is currently facing a pressing issue brought about by the digital revolution: unfettered access to pornography. As one of the Pacific's most internet-connected countries, Fiji has witnessed a rise in the availability and consumption of explicit content, sparking a heated debate among its citizens.

Concerns about the impact of pornography extend beyond moral grounds, with some arguing that it has adverse effects on sexual relationships and can even contribute to violence, particularly among younger generations. On the other hand, proponents of open access to pornography believe it is an inevitable aspect of modern society and may even be considered preferable to infidelity within relationships.

Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, has emerged as a critical figure in addressing this issue. He acknowledges the complexity of the relationship between pornography and an increase in sex crimes, emphasizing the need for careful navigation. Mr. Kamikamica highlights that the topic of pornography touches upon various factors, including privacy, freedom of expression, censorship, and individual liberty.

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To shed light on the extent of pornography consumption in Fiji, Mr. Kamikamica disclosed that a major internet provider reported 626.13 terabytes of internet traffic dedicated to viewing explicit content in the last quarter. Fiji ranked among the top 10 countries on this internet provider's network for accessing pornographic websites. Additionally, in 2020, Fiji's Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty, Lynda Tabuya, expressed concerns based on Google Trends data that ranked Fiji among the top 10 countries worldwide in searches for "porn" and "pornography."

The growing concern over the accessibility and impact of pornography has led to the formation of advocacy groups like Free Fiji from Porn. These organizations aim to promote discussion and address the issue of pornography addiction openly and honestly. However, opinions on this matter remain divided. The ABC spoke to a Fijian man who engages in daily online conversations with 30 other men who share a common interest in pornography. This exemplifies the differing viewpoints regarding pornography's consequences and whether it should be labeled as a problem.

A report by Save the Children published this year further sheds light on the concern surrounding young people's exposure to pornography in Pacific countries. The report highlights that the expansion of internet technology, gender inequality, prevailing attitudes towards violence, religious and cultural taboos surrounding sex, and the lack of action on the issue have all contributed to the situation. There is fear among locals that such exposure to pornographic content may shape the beliefs, desires, and behaviors of the next generation, exacerbating female subordination and instances of sexual violence against girls.

The issue of pornography in Fiji is a complex one, intertwining cultural, religious, and societal factors. It forces a delicate balance between protecting individual freedoms and expression, the need for privacy, and concerns about its potential negative consequences. The government, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens must continue to engage in productive dialogue to find a solution that respects all perspectives while safeguarding the well-being and values of the Fijian society.

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