Fiji Peace Dialogue Highlights Family First as Trust in Leadership Wanes

The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) recently convened the National Dialogue on Pathways to Peace, uniting 40 representatives from 22 District Councils of Social Services and five national NGOs. The primary aim of this gathering was to create a meaningful connection between grassroots communities and national policymakers.

During the dialogue, a powerful message emerged, emphasizing that the journey toward sustainable peace begins within the home and the family unit. This insight resonates with the traditional wisdom that “it takes a village to raise a child,” underscoring a shared commitment to fostering peace and resilience in society.

The document produced from this dialogue reflects not only the challenges faced by communities across Fiji’s four divisions but also outlines a strategic framework aimed at promoting collaborative action. FCOSS interprets this as both a representation of the community’s collective will and an assertion of their intent to lead civil society in partnership with the government toward a more equitable and peaceful Fiji.

A critical issue raised during the discussions was the “Crisis of the Family,” where participants expressed concern that fragile family structures are a significant contributor to societal issues, including youth delinquency and a decline in social values. Concerns about the “Erosion of Trust in Leadership” also surfaced, with many expressing a pervasive distrust of both traditional and contemporary leadership, which they believe leads to community disengagement.

Participants underscored the necessity for improved transparency and accountability from leaders, who are often perceived as prioritizing personal interests over the public good. FCOSS articulated that this dialogue is only the beginning of a more extensive effort to engage in meaningful change.

Going forward, the FCOSS plans to issue a call to action to its partners. They are seeking formal acknowledgment from the government of this Outcome Statement, which reflects the collective voice of the communities represented, and aspire for genuine collaboration in its implementation. This initiative signals a hopeful step forward in addressing pressing societal issues and reaffirming the community’s commitment to peace and resilience in Fiji.