Mereseini Rakuita, the Principal Strategic Lead for Pacific Women at the Pacific Community, emphasized the importance of engaging women in the electoral process during a recent press club event focused on women’s media representation. She addressed the need to understand the barriers preventing women from participating in consultations related to the Electoral Law Review.
Rakuita highlighted a crucial point: if women are not participating, stakeholders must investigate why this is the case and actively go to where women are. Drawing from her past experience as a politician, she noted that while government initiatives, such as a grant scheme created to assist communities post-COVID-19, may show equal distribution in terms of gender demographics, access to comprehensive support services like training remains skewed, with women often unable to attend due to logistical challenges associated with childcare and community responsibilities.
This dialogue resonates with ongoing discussions surrounding gender equality in Fiji, particularly regarding the significant underrepresentation of women in political roles. Recent statistics revealed that while women constitute nearly half of the population, their presence in governance has decreased sharply, from 20% in the 2018 elections to just 14% after the 2022 elections. This has sparked calls for systemic changes, including mentorship programs and financial support to empower women and address long-standing barriers to their political participation.
Significantly, the upcoming Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) to be held in Suva presents a historic opportunity to elevate local women’s voices in discussions on gender equality and human rights. This session, which will be the first CEDAW Committee meeting held outside of Geneva, not only enables Pacific nations’ unique challenges to be recognized but also paves the way for collaborative efforts to promote women’s rights throughout the region.
The prevailing sentiment among leaders and advocates is one of hope and action. By fostering inclusive environments where women can share their perspectives and contribute to decision-making, Fiji is taking steps toward meaningful change in governance and society. The commitment to gender equality within communities and governmental frameworks signals a future where women’s voices no longer go unheard. Through these initiatives, there is a strong potential for transformative change, marking a positive trajectory for women in Fiji and the Pacific as a whole.
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