The NGO Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR) has expressed deep concerns regarding governance failures and human rights issues in Fiji, characterizing these trends as detrimental to democracy and the rule of law. In a statement released on December 31, the coalition highlighted systemic injustices, inadequate accountability, reduced civic freedoms, and questionable government priorities that continue to adversely impact the lives of many Fijians.
One of the major criticisms from NGOCHR involves the design of the proposed Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The coalition argues that it inadequately differentiates between perpetrators and victims of historical human rights abuses, which could potentially retraumatize survivors and erode public trust in the process.
The National Referendum Bill 2025 also raised alarm bells for the coalition, which indicated that certain provisions might criminalize regular advocacy, limit public discourse, and curtail freedoms of expression, association, and political involvement, all protected by the Constitution.
Further issues outlined by NGOCHR include increasing militarization, persistent limitations on peaceful protests, self-censorship in media outlets, weak police accountability, and the ongoing marginalization of various groups including women, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities, and migrant workers.
The coalition expressed skepticism about government spending priorities, cabinet reshuffles, and what it describes as haphazard decision-making, particularly in light of rising living costs, inadequacies in healthcare services, and infrastructure concerns.
In light of these serious matters, NGOCHR is urging the government to promptly revise restrictive legislation, bolster police accountability, support civic freedoms, combat violence against women and girls, and adopt policies that prioritize poverty alleviation and essential public services.
It is essential for the coalition to emphasize that mere symbolic reforms will not suffice; human rights must be actively upheld in practice, ensuring transparent governance and meaningful justice for all citizens of Fiji. The call for systemic change reflects a hopeful vision of a society where fundamental rights are respected and the dignity of every individual is maintained.
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