The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament took place in Fiji, gathering 55 enthusiastic participants from various regions, including as far as Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau. The event concluded on a positive note, with hopes for increased female representation in Parliament, emphasizing the importance of addressing national needs rather than merely balancing statistics.
The first gathering of the group was marked by a welcome gala dinner on July 28, where representatives from donor agencies highlighted the significance and extensive planning behind the Mock Parliament. Participants introduced themselves, setting the stage for their interactions over the following days.
The initial two days were dedicated to informative sessions on parliamentary procedures, policy-making skills, and practical exercises to prepare for the main session held in the Parliament Chamber on the third day. Participants had the choice of representing either the Government or Opposition, though the assignment of roles and ministerial portfolios revealed existing biases and work dynamics.
The final day featured a comprehensive session in the Parliament chambers, where participants discussed three motions addressing maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation’s impact on women, and the enhancement of women’s representation in decision-making processes. The discussions unveiled the diverse challenges faced by women across Fiji, particularly in relation to healthcare.
Jacinta Renu from Labasa spoke passionately about the struggles of pregnant women in her region, highlighting issues such as inadequate road infrastructure and transportation challenges in accessing health clinics. Her speech resonated with other attendees and showcased the real-life experiences behind the statistics.
As the discussions unfolded, there was a notable emotional connection among the participants, marked by supportive interactions during breaks and shared reflections on their personal experiences. Many expressed the need to understand each other’s stories, recognizing that issues perceived as women’s, rural, or racial problems are often national concerns that affect everyone.
The event highlighted the necessity for more women in leadership roles within Parliament, as they can better represent the needs of the nation. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the Mock Parliament and expressed hope for similar initiatives in the future.
Participants shared their personal reflections on the experience:
Shivashni Dutt, a barrister and solicitor from Labasa, described the Mock Parliament as empowering and a catalyst for change. She plans to run for municipal elections and argues the experience has boosted her confidence to make a difference in her country.
Losana Derenalagi from Nawaka Village emphasized the need for more women in decision-making positions across all levels of governance, stating that both men and women should share the responsibility of making decisions that impact society.
Raniyah Muhammed from Suva shared insights from her role with a research program focused on health and environmental issues. She reflected on how the Mock Parliament enhanced her understanding of governance and the importance of women’s perspectives in leadership.
With participants championing the importance of female representation, the event underscored the critical role women play in shaping a more equitable and inclusive democracy in Fiji.