The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) is facing significant challenges with low voter turnout, particularly among young voters and Fijians living abroad. In the last election, only 58% of voters aged 18 to 30 participated, starkly contrasting with the 72% turnout from voters over 30. Additionally, among the estimated 200,000 eligible Fijians overseas, fewer than 10,000 registered to vote, and just 651 cast their ballots.
To address this concern, Eric Drodrolagi, the FEO Community and International Engagement Coordinator, announced the launch of a new voter engagement plan aimed at enhancing participation, trust, and innovation. The approach focuses on removing bureaucratic barriers and making the voting process more accessible. Drodrolagi stressed the importance of communication, stating that the strategy is not solely about disseminating information but also about forming genuine connections with voters to build trust and strengthen democracy.
The FEO’s plan will utilize a combination of traditional media, digital platforms, and grassroots outreach efforts to effectively reach voters across Fiji. An essential component of this initiative is the introduction of “FEO Connect: Your Voice, Your Platform,” a digital tool designed to improve two-way communication and keep voters informed.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts to boost voter registration among young individuals and those in remote areas, as highlighted in earlier discussions around electoral reform. For instance, similar articles pointed out that community-led voter registration drives in schools could engage youth effectively, and emphasized the need for educational institutions to play a crucial role in raising awareness about voting.
The sentiment surrounding these initiatives is hopeful. As Fiji prepares for upcoming elections, there is a collective movement toward creating a more inclusive and transparent electoral process that encourages every eligible citizen’s participation. Ensuring that younger Fijians feel connected to the political process is vital in shaping a stronger democracy in the country, particularly with a significant proportion of the population under the age of 30.
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