The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament in Fiji showcased the real ambitions, capabilities, and concerns of 55 participants who gathered from various regions, including Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau. The event concluded with a sense of hope and positivity surrounding the call for greater representation of women in Parliament. This call transcends mere statistical balance; it aims to create a legislative body that effectively addresses the needs of the nation.
Participants convened for the first time during a welcome gala dinner on July 28, where speeches from donor agencies emphasized the significance of the Mock Parliament and the extensive planning that made it possible. This initial gathering created a foundation for the connections that would evolve over the three-day event.
The first two days were filled with sessions designed to enhance participants’ understanding of parliamentary processes, policy-making, and essential skills needed for effective governance. While attendees had the option to align with either the Government or Opposition, the distribution of ministerial roles unveiled existing biases and collaborative dynamics.
The highlight came on Day Three, featuring a full day in the Parliament chambers, where participants debated motions related to maternal healthcare funding, environmental conservation affecting women, and increasing women’s roles in decision-making. The diverse experiences of the women highlighted the complexities of issues such as poor maternal healthcare in Fiji, emphasizing distinct challenges faced by various communities.
Jacinta Renu from Labasa addressed the concerns faced by pregnant women, illustrating their struggles with inadequate transportation and facilities. Her compelling speech resonated with fellow participants and attendees, revealing the depth of shared experiences among the women.
As the sessions progressed, the atmosphere shifted from formality to a more personal connection, with many participants exchanging congratulatory hugs and engaging in meaningful conversations that underscored their shared journeys.
The key takeaway from the 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament is the importance of understanding one another beyond differences of gender, race, or background. Listening to each other’s stories reveals that issues impacting women are, in fact, national matters that affect all citizens. The call for more women in Parliament embodies the aim of serving the entire nation.
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in the Mock Parliament. Shivashni Dutt from Labasa described the experience as empowering and motivating her to pursue a political career. Losana Derenalagi from Nadi echoed the need for women’s leadership in all decision-making spheres, emphasizing that women’s voices must be included in matters that impact the entire population. Raniyah Muhammed, from Suva, highlighted her enriching experience and the unique perspectives women bring to governance, advocating for a more inclusive political landscape.
The Mock Parliament served as a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and understanding, paving the way for future initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s representation and involvement in Fijian politics.