Attorney General Graham Leung is set to lead Fiji’s delegation during the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on January 22, 2025. Fiji will be one of 14 nations examined by the UPR Working Group, which conducts thorough assessments of the human rights records of member states every four to five years. This upcoming review will mark Fiji’s fourth evaluation under the UPR process, following its last review in November 2019.

The hearing will take place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, with Fiji’s State Report being discussed in an interactive dialogue setting. The review will be managed by a “troika” comprising representatives from China, Côte d’Ivoire, and Romania, indicating the diverse international participation in the process.

The UPR process is notable for allowing every UN member state the opportunity to engage in country reviews, further promoting accountability in human rights practices across nations. With the Cabinet’s recent approval to submit Fiji’s State Report, the nation is preparing for an essential step in addressing potential human rights concerns and improving its practices for the future.

This review provides a valuable opportunity for Fiji not only to showcase legislative improvements and initiatives but also to engage with the global community in a meaningful dialogue about human rights. It highlights Fiji’s commitment to enhancing its human rights framework and reflects a broader dedication to accountability on the international stage.

As Fiji approaches this important event, there is optimism that it can leverage this review to foster positive changes and collaborations for better human rights protection.