Government investment in the Online Safety Commission is essential, according to John Apted, a litigation partner at Munroe Ley Lawyers. He spoke on the topic during the event “Breaking Barriers: Increasing Female Participation in Local Government Elections in Fiji,” held at Tanoa Plaza on Tuesday night.
Apted pointed out that social media poses significant challenges for women aspiring to enter politics. He emphasized that traditional media has lost its influence, with the real action now occurring on social media platforms.
“The online environment in Fiji is notably harsh, particularly towards women and LGBTQ+ individuals, who often face intense scrutiny and criticism,” he stated. He referenced popular sites such as Chat Fiji, where personal and sensitive photos are often shared without consent, creating a hostile atmosphere that discourages women from participating in politics.
While some legislation exists to hold offenders accountable, Apted noted a lack of governmental action to enforce these laws effectively. He argued for the need for a dedicated budget and personnel for online safety initiatives and greater public awareness to support women’s empowerment in the political arena.
Apted encouraged women to voice their concerns to the government and advocate for increased funding and support for online safety measures to foster a more welcoming environment for their political engagement.