The 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament in Fiji concluded with a sense of triumph and hope as participants gathered from various regions, including Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau. The event, while a simulation, showcased the genuine ambitions and concerns of the 55 mock parliamentarians.
The message of advocating for more women in Parliament transcends mere statistical representation; it aims to create a legislative body that serves the diverse needs of the nation. The mock parliamentarians first convened at a welcome gala on July 28, during which donor agency representatives highlighted the significance and extensive planning that went into the event.
Throughout the first two days, attendees engaged in sessions designed to equip them with parliamentary skills, policy-making insights, and practical exercises to prepare for the third and final day spent in the Parliament Chamber. While participants chose their sides—Government or Opposition—the allocation of ministerial roles and assignments revealed underlying biases and working dynamics.
The final day allowed the mock parliamentarians to engage in meaningful discussions on three critical motions pertaining to maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation affecting women, and enhancing women’s representation in decision-making roles. The diverse experiences shared among the participants highlighted varying challenges related to these issues in Fiji.
Addressing the Parliament, Jacinta Renu from Labasa highlighted the difficulties faced by pregnant women, noting the alarming conditions they endure while traveling to maternal health facilities. Her poignant speech resonated with fellow attendees, including prominent leaders who were present to witness the impactful exchanges.
This event became a platform for participants to connect on a personal level, as they shared encouraging moments and insights during breaks. Attendees learned the importance of understanding one another beyond differences in gender, race, or background, recognizing that what may seem like women’s issues are, in fact, national issues.
The message was clear: more women in Parliament are essential to adequately represent the interests of all citizens. As the event drew to a close, participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such an empowering initiative and hoped for similar events in the future.
Among the voices from the mock parliamentarians was Shivashni Dutt, a barrister and solicitor from Labasa, who expressed her newfound determination to effect change in her community. She plans to run for municipal elections and ultimately for the General Election in 2026.
Losana Derenalagi from Nadi shared her perspective on the importance of women in leadership, emphasizing that equal representation is crucial for fair decision-making processes. Raniyah Muhammed from Suva reflected on the enriching experience, underscoring the unique contributions women bring to governance and the need for a more inclusive democracy in Fiji.
The Women’s Mock Parliament has undoubtedly sparked a renewed commitment among its participants to engage in political life and advocate for the representation of women at all levels of decision-making.