Government investment in support for individuals with disabilities in Fiji is showing significant progress, with funding nearly doubling in the past five years. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Shashi Kiran, announced that allocations jumped from $21.8 million for the 2020-2021 period to $40.7 million in 2024-2025, marking an impressive increase of 86.8 percent. This development underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities can live with dignity, independence, and equal opportunity.
Currently, over 13,000 Fijians with disabilities are benefiting from this financial support, which encompasses social protection initiatives, inclusive education, accessible housing, and the provision of assistive devices. In a bid to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of these programs, a new framework is being established in partnership with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This strategic development aims to track progress on critical policy goals by mid-next year.
Kiran is optimistic about building a truly inclusive Fiji, emphasizing that accessibility and active participation should be integral to every governmental decision. This commitment to inclusivity aligns with the recently launched National Policy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for 2025-2035, which aims to protect and improve the lives of over 120,000 Fijians with disabilities by ensuring their voices are represented in decision-making processes.
The revised policy reflects a human rights-based approach, and ongoing initiatives are set out to address structural barriers, particularly in infrastructure where about 50% of projects currently do not accommodate people with disabilities. Efforts also include comprehensive access audits to make public spaces more inclusive.
With these advancements, there is a hopeful trajectory towards an equitable and barrier-free society in Fiji. Collectively, these initiatives represent a significant step forward, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can meaningfully participate in community life and enjoy their rights without discrimination. With continued support and dedication from the government and various stakeholders, Fiji is moving closer to fulfilling its vision of an inclusive environment for all citizens.
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