Corruption affects all

CORRUPTION can affect youth prospects for a decent future and employment, says the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption manager corruption prevention Kolora Naliva.

While speaking at the anti-corruption workshop organised by the University of the South Pacific, Labasa campus, Ms Naliva said corruption was a victimless crime and affected every person including the innocent.

This, she said was why the fight against corruption should matter to youths.

“It knows no boundaries, culture, race, class or age,” she said.

Hence, she said youths in Fiji have a major stake in countering corruption.

“You need to play a critical role in building a more just, equitable, resilient, and sustainable world, an important part of which involves countering corruption.

“As youths and young leaders, you can contribute to the maintenance of transparent, accountable and good governance structures by increasing and strengthening youth engagement in negotiating processes.”

Youths, she said are known to be the agents of change.

“That means that you are required to be involved, and to be empowered in development policies, to talk about the pivotal role that leaders play and why they need to be corruption free, and for your participation at all levels to be supported.

“As leaders of today and tomorrow, your public demonstrations of your determination to deliver with the utmost integrity and to participate actively in combating corruption sends a powerful message.

“Put your ideas and energy into good use with other youths as resilience builders.”

She said youths could make Fiji corruption free.