Fiji’s Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, has passionately highlighted the ongoing struggle for gender equality in her message for International Women’s Day. She acknowledged that regardless of whether women live in rural, maritime, or urban areas, the challenges they face, especially those with disabilities, are significant and require continued effort to overcome.
Kiran emphasized the necessity of empowering every woman and girl, stressing that they deserve lives filled with dignity and opportunities, free from violence. She pointed out that gender equality is not merely a matter of fairness but a critical driver for sustainable development and economic growth. The minister expressed the urgent need to recognize and support the often-invisible unpaid care work that women perform, which is essential for family and community well-being.
As Kiran noted, women in various sectors like construction and science are breaking barriers but still face obstacles such as business registration challenges and lack of recognition. The call for equal pay and opportunities resonated throughout her address. She also condemned gender-based violence, which includes severe threats such as cyberbullying, urging the establishment of community prevention committees to protect girls and women.
Echoing sentiments from previous discussions, Kiran reiterated that fostering women’s leadership across all sectors—including politics and corporate boards—is crucial for a comprehensive approach to societal progress. She elaborated on the Fiji Government’s commitment to gender-responsive budgeting, a measure that aligns public policies with the needs of women and girls.
Kiran called upon men and boys to stand alongside women in this fight for equality. She emphasized that it is a shared responsibility, where respect for women’s rights and condemnation of violence are paramount in building a society where gender equality is ingrained in everyday life.
The minister concluded with a hopeful message, urging every woman to support each other and collectively work towards a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality for all Fijians. This reaffirmation of commitment to women’s rights and empowerment represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable Fiji.
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