The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament in Fiji showcased the genuine ambitions, capabilities, and concerns of its 55 participants, who journeyed from different regions including Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau. The event concluded on a note of optimism, emphasizing the need for increased female representation in Parliament to effectively address national needs.
The gathering commenced with a welcome gala dinner on July 28, where speeches from donor agencies highlighted the significance and planning required for the Mock Parliament. As the participants began to interact, their initial impressions of one another would evolve significantly over the following days.
The first two days were dedicated to informative sessions covering the journey to parliament, parliamentary skills, and policy-making exercises, all aimed at preparing participants for a full day in the Parliament Chamber. While participants could choose to be on the Government or Opposition side, the process of assigning ministerial roles revealed underlying biases and perspectives.
The third day was the highlight, as the mock parliamentarians engaged in discussions about three key motions related to maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation impacting women, and enhancing women’s representation in decision-making roles. The diverse experiences of the participants reflected varying challenges faced by women in Fiji, particularly in addressing maternal healthcare issues.
Jacinta Renu from Labasa spoke passionately about the struggles pregnant women face in her region, highlighting the difficult conditions they endure to access healthcare. Her impactful address resonated with attendees in the chamber and those watching online, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
As the event progressed, barriers slowly came down, allowing for heartfelt exchanges and shared experiences to emerge between participants during breaks. Many attendees recognized that personal stories often reflect broader societal issues, underscoring the necessity for more female voices in parliament to tackle these challenges effectively.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity provided by the Mock Parliament and expressed hopes for similar initiatives in the future.
Shivashni Dutt from Labasa remarked on the empowering nature of the event, stating her newfound confidence and determination to enter the political arena.
Losana Derenalagi from Nadi emphasized the importance of women’s representation in decision-making processes, asserting that equitable representation is essential for effective governance.
Raniyah Muhammed from Suva noted the value of gaining insights into governance and policy-making, highlighting the unique contributions women can offer in leadership roles to foster a more inclusive democracy.
The Women’s Mock Parliament not only served as a platform for empowerment and learning but also reinforced the collective push for greater female representation in Fiji’s political landscape.