Fiji Approves Needle Exchange Law to Combat HIV Emergency

Fiji approves needle exchange law to combat HIV emergency

Fiji has one of the fastest-growing HIV rates in the world, with the government declaring an HIV emergency last month as one in 60 Fijian adults is now living with the virus.

Parliament passes HIV Bill allowing needles and syringes program

Parliament passes HIV Bill allowing needles and syringes program

Fiji approves ‘lifeline’ needle exchange law to combat HIV emergency

RNZ Pacific reporters Fiji’s lawmakers have passed legislation allowing the rollout of a needle exchange programme aimed at containing the rapid rise of HIV from intravenous drug use. The HIV/AIDS (Amendment) Bill 2026, which will introduce evidence-based harm reduction programmes, is being hailed as a “lifeline” for the country. Fiji now joins Australia, New Zealand

Needle and syringe programme set for rollout

The needle and syringe programme is now set for rollout after Parliament passed amendments to the HIV/AIDS Act. Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu says the programme will be delivered through sexual and reproductive health and HIV clinics, other government clinics, NGOs and interested private pharmacies. He says peer outreach workers will distribute sterile needles and […]