Financial Crime World

Fiji Battles Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Individuals Amid Economic Crisis

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In response to the economic crisis caused by COVID-19, Save the Children has launched the Fiji Cash Assistance Project (FiNCAP) to combat financial exploitation of vulnerable individuals in Fiji.

Combating Financial Exploitation

The FiNCAP program provides unconditional cash payments via mobile phone cash transfers to support over 39,000 households affected by the economic impact of COVID-19. The project aims to reduce negative coping mechanisms among beneficiary households, increase their understanding and support of cash assistance, and enhance the capacity of local and regional partners to deliver long-term sustainable social protection.

Key Outcomes

  • Reducing negative coping mechanisms among beneficiary households
  • Increasing understanding and support of cash assistance
  • Enhancing the capacity of local and regional partners to deliver long-term sustainable social protection

Implementation

The project was implemented in two phases from late 2020 to mid-2022. Phase 1 provided FJD400 (US$196) to 14,772 households and a further 2,000 households receiving FJD400 as a Special Need Fund payment. Phase 2 provided cash assistance of FJD600 (US$286) to an additional 22,230 beneficiary households.

Partnerships

  • Save the Children Australia
  • Save the Children Fiji
  • Local organizations including:
    • Fiji Council of Social Services
    • Medical Services Pacific
    • National Disaster Management Office
    • Several civil society organizations

Impact

The FiNCAP project has made a significant impact on the lives of children and their families, providing them with the necessary support to meet their basic needs. According to experts, cash assistance is an effective way to provide support to vulnerable individuals, as it allows them to access essential goods and services directly.

Benefits

  • Allows beneficiaries to access essential goods and services directly
  • Stimulates local economies and promotes sustainable development

Conclusion

The Fiji Cash Assistance Project demonstrates Save the Children’s commitment to supporting vulnerable households affected by humanitarian crises. The organization recognizes the importance of cash assistance in providing immediate relief and promoting long-term sustainability.

Future Directions

As Fiji continues to recover from the economic impact of COVID-19, the FiNCAP project serves as a model for combating financial exploitation and promoting sustainable social protection.