Consent and intimate relationships

Consent is when one person agrees or gives permission to another person to do something. It means agreeing to an action – touching, kissing and sexual activities – based on your knowledge of what that action involves; its risks and having the option to say no. 

In the context of sex, consent is an agreement between people to engage in sexual activity. Consent must be clearly and freely communicated without intimidation, threat, pressure, or negative consequence. 

Consent cannot be given by individuals who are under the legal age of consent (as per national legislation), intoxicated or incapacitated by drugs or alcohol,  asleep or unconscious (Fiji National Action Plan on EVAWG). 

The legal age of consent in Fiji is 16 years old.

When it comes to sex or any sexual contact, both partners consenting is a really important communication skill. 

Non-consensual sexual activity, such as rape, is against the law. The punishments for rape and other forms of sexual assault are severe. Not only are they crimes, but the physical, social, emotional and economic consequences of sexual violence can last a lifetime.

The person giving consent has the right to change their mind and say no at any time.

When it comes to sex or any sexual contact, consent is really important communication skill. Non-consensual sexual activity, such as peneration is against the law . The punishments for sexual assault are severe. Not only is it a crime, but the emotional consequences of rape and sexual assault can last a lifetime. There are many legal issues around sex and consent. The legal age of consent in Fiji is 16 years old.