The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) has raised significant concerns regarding the draft National Referendum Bill 2025 during a submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights. The organization argues that certain provisions in the bill could criminalize advocacy and severely limit public participation in democratic processes, particularly affecting women, youth, and marginalized groups.
Shayal Nand, the leader of the Gender and Transitional Justice Programme, expressed alarm over Section 23 of the draft Bill, which would classify efforts to persuade individuals on how to vote as a criminal offense, potentially leading to penalties of up to one year in prison. Nand emphasized that this provision threatens ordinary advocacy and restricts people’s and organizations’ ability to engage in discussions pertinent to referendums.
Moreover, Nand brought attention to Section 22, which restricts the use of badges, symbols, and any visual referendum-related materials around voting times. She noted that these limitations disproportionately impact those reliant on grassroots advocacy and community discussions, further complicating their participation in civic life.
“The law risks silencing voices, shrinking civic space, and discouraging lawful participation in referendum discussions,” Nand stated, underscoring the potential ramifications for democratic engagement in Fiji.
In addressing comparisons made by the Acting Attorney-General with practices in Singapore and Australia, Nand noted that those countries impose more specific and limited restrictions. For instance, Singapore restricts campaign materials primarily on polling day to ensure a cooling-off period, while Australia applies restrictions mainly within polling places to maintain neutrality on voting day. The proposed Fijian Bill, according to Nand, extends far beyond these measures, raising questions about its implications for democratic participation.
FWRM is advocating for a revision of Sections 22 and 23, calling for broader national consultations and alignment of the Bill with international democratic norms. Their plea emphasizes the necessity for Fijians to engage in open discussions and advocacy on critical national issues without fear of political repercussions. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that civic engagement remains robust and unhindered in Fiji’s democratic landscape.
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