Thirty servicewomen from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces have successfully completed a three-day Gender Responsiveness Training Workshop, aimed at enhancing leadership and promoting inclusivity within military units. The training addressed critical areas such as safeguarding, conflict analysis, mediation, restorative justice, anger management, stress, and trauma management.
During the workshop, Commander of the Fiji Navy, Commodore Timoci Natuva, highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of peace and non-violence within the military. He expressed gratitude to the Pacific Centre for Peacebuilding and the British High Commission in Fiji for their support in advancing gender inclusivity and maritime security. Commodore Natuva also touched upon the ongoing challenges faced by women in the Army, including the lack of significant changes since the 1980s regarding their treatment.
This workshop forms part of broader efforts to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of humility, empathy, and understanding the perspectives of junior sailors by military leaders. The participants engaged in interactive sessions, including case studies, scenario exercises, role-playing, and group discussions. The workshop encouraged servicewomen to enhance their roles while maintaining their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Petty Officer Palu Sokoiwasa noted the workshop’s emphasis on the significance of her role and the importance of well-being, while Corporal Kula Kotoisuva described the training as transformative, especially in managing anger and stress.
The workshop aligns with Fiji’s wider initiatives to promote gender inclusivity. A similar ongoing effort, the Gender Barrier Assessment Project, seeks to address obstacles faced by women in Fiji’s security forces, aiming for increased participation in peacekeeping operations. This project represents a collaborative effort involving Fijian military and police forces, as well as various international partners.
Overall, such initiatives reflect Fiji’s commitment to creating more inclusive and effective security forces that value diverse contributions and foster an environment of equality and respect. Through continued efforts, Fiji strives to lead by example in the Pacific region, spearheading initiatives that not only empower women in military roles but also contribute positively to peacekeeping missions globally.
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