Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has raised important questions regarding the lack of support among women for one another in leadership and political roles in Fiji. During discussions on the persistent underrepresentation of women in the Fijian political landscape, he remarked on the significant gap despite women constituting a considerable portion of the population. Currently, only nine percent of parliamentarians are women, a decline from 20 percent in 2018, illustrating a worrying trend in political participation.
Rabuka emphasizes that addressing this gender disparity is essential not just for representation but for advancing overall gender equality in the nation. He advocates for building the capacity of government agencies to integrate the needs and contributions of women into their policies and strategies. The ongoing challenge, he notes, involves enhancing women’s empowerment to fully engage in political and decision-making roles.
This topic resonates with previous discussions led by various leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has called for the implementation of a quota system aimed at improving female representation in Parliament. Statistics show that in the 2022 elections, despite over 238,000 women casting their votes, only six out of 54 female candidates were elected, highlighting a disconnect between voter turnout and actual representation.
Advocacy for systemic changes has gained momentum, with organizations and individuals underscoring the need for supportive measures such as mentorship programs, financial assistance, and policies to combat barriers like gender-based violence and online harassment. Efforts are also being made to promote community discussions on the importance of unity among women to foster a supportive network that encourages participation in governance.
There is a palpable sense of hope as these conversations continue to evolve, with a collective commitment from various stakeholders aiming for an environment that truly reflects the diverse voices of the population. Collaboration among civil society, government, and community leaders signifies a pathway toward a more equitable political landscape, where women can actively shape the future of Fiji’s governance.
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