The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament in Fiji concluded with a palpable sense of excitement and hope among the 55 participants who traveled from various regions, including Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau. This event went beyond mere statistics; it was a call to create a parliamentary environment that truly addresses the nation’s needs.
The program kicked off with a welcome gala dinner on July 28, during which representatives from donor organizations emphasized the significance of the Mock Parliament and the extensive planning involved in its organization. Initial impressions of the participants set the stage for a transformative experience in the days ahead.
Over the first two days, participants engaged in sessions focusing on parliamentary skills, policy-making, and hands-on exercises to prepare for their performances in the Parliament Chamber. While the mock parliamentarians had the option to align as either Government or Opposition, the assignment of roles revealed underlying biases and established working dynamics.
The highlight of the initiative occurred on the third day, as participants took to the Parliament chamber to discuss motions centered on enhancing maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation affecting women, and increasing women’s representation in decision-making. The diverse perspectives shared by the mock parliamentarians reflected the varied challenges women face across Fiji.
During her address, Jacinta Renu from Labasa spoke passionately about the hardships endured by pregnant women, including the difficulties of navigating poor infrastructure and traveling to health clinics, which resonated with her peers. The emotional depth of the discussions fostered connections, with participants engaging in heartfelt conversations during breaks.
Key takeaways from the experience emphasized the importance of understanding the shared human experiences behind various issues. Recognizing that challenges often categorized as women’s, rural, or racial issues are ultimately national concerns reinforces the need for increased female representation in parliament.
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by the Mock Parliament, emphasizing its significance as a platform for empowering women. Shivashni Dutt from Labasa highlighted how the event inspired her to pursue a political career, while Losana Derenalagi from Nadi stressed the necessity of women in decision-making roles across all levels.
Raniyah Muhammed, representing Suva, reflected on how the Mock Parliament enriched her understanding of governance and policy-making. She noted that the involvement of women in leadership is vital for fostering an equitable and inclusive democracy in Fiji.
The event has left participants hopeful for future initiatives aimed at elevating women’s voices in political and decision-making spheres.