Gender equality remains a crucial objective that encourages men and boys to take an active role in dismantling harmful stereotypes, respecting women’s rights, and opposing violence. Minister for Women Sashi Kiran asserts that fostering gender equality and empowering women is essential for creating just economies and promoting sustainable development.
On International Women’s Day, which carried the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” Kiran acknowledged women’s accomplishments while stressing the importance of ensuring that every woman and girl, regardless of their circumstances, can live with dignity, free from violence, and access equal opportunities.
In Fiji, the path to gender equality encounters obstacles, especially for women with disabilities living in both rural and urban settings. One critical yet often unrecognized factor is the unpaid care work performed by women, which plays a pivotal role in supporting families and nurturing future generations.
Gender-based violence, including online harassment, poses a serious threat to women’s safety and dignity. Kiran advocates for communities to establish prevention committees devoted to safeguarding girls and women. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for increased support for women’s representation in political spheres and corporate boards, as their insights are vital for achieving meaningful social progress.
Fiji’s government has embraced gender-responsive budgeting to ensure that public policies and resources are aligned with the needs of women and girls. This commitment to gender equality aligns with previous discussions highlighting Fiji’s efforts, which have made significant strides while recognizing that considerable challenges remain.
The active involvement in promoting gender equality in Fiji serves as an inspiration for building a more inclusive society. With continued commitment to enhancing women’s leadership and addressing disparities, the pursuit of a more equitable future for all citizens is within reach.
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