The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament in Fiji concluded with a spirit of joy and hope, showcasing the genuine ambitions and concerns of its 55 participants. Women from various regions, including Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau, gathered for an event that emphasized the need for greater representation of women in political roles to address national issues effectively.
The event kicked off with a welcome gala dinner on July 28, where insights from donor agencies highlighted the importance of the Mock Parliament and the extensive planning that went into organizing it. This initial gathering allowed participants to form early impressions of one another, setting the stage for deeper connections over the following days.
The first two days were dedicated to informative sessions covering parliamentary procedures, policymaking skills, and practical exercises meant to prepare participants for their day in the Parliament Chamber. While participants chose sides as either Government or Opposition, ministerial roles revealed underlying biases and familiar dynamics within the group.
The final day was marked by a full session in the Parliament chambers where participants addressed one of three key motions focusing on improving maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation affecting women, and enhancing women’s representation in decision-making processes. The diverse experiences among the participants highlighted unique challenges related to poor maternal healthcare in Fiji, illustrating the complex realities many women face.
Jacinta Renu from Labasa brought attention to the hardships faced by pregnant women in her region, who must navigate difficult terrain to seek healthcare services. Her passionate speech resonated with others present, including notable figures such as Lenora Qereqeretabua and Sashi Kiran, and sparked meaningful dialogue during breaks, fostering a sense of community among the women.
Through this Mock Parliament experience, participants recognized the importance of listening to each other’s stories, which transcended gender, race, and regional divides. It underscored the idea that issues labeled as women’s, rural, or racial are fundamentally human concerns affecting everyone.
The call for increased female representation in government is rooted in the belief that it can lead to more comprehensive solutions for national challenges. Participants voiced their gratitude for the opportunity provided by the 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament, hoping for continued support for similar initiatives in the future.
Notable reflections from participants include:
Shivashni Dutt from Labasa expressed that the experience encouraged her to strive for change in society and reinforced her determination to pursue a political career, aiming to contest future elections.
Losana Derenalagi from Nawaka Village emphasized the importance of women’s leadership across all decision-making levels, arguing that both genders need to collaborate to secure the best outcomes for the nation.
Raniyah Muhammed from Suva shared her enriching experience at the Mock Parliament, highlighting the significance of women’s perspectives in governance and the need for inclusive democracy in tackling societal issues.
These reflections illustrate the collective vision of these women: for a more representative and effective political landscape in Fiji.