Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua has reiterated Fiji’s dedication to women’s empowerment during the 58th session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development in New York. She emphasized Fiji’s ongoing efforts to eradicate discrimination against women and highlighted the collaborative actions being taken to improve the health and well-being of the Fijian population.
The Assistant Minister noted several programs and policies that Fiji has implemented to foster a healthier and more equitable society, working closely with key development partners, including the UNFPA Pacific Office and the Government of Australia. Qereqeretabua affirmed that Fiji remains committed to its multilateral obligations, particularly in enhancing the health rights of women through accessible maternal health services and initiatives that improve overall quality of life.
Similar to previous engagements at the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) earlier this month, where Fiji discussed its advancements in areas like healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship, the current session also signifies the country’s commitment to advancing women’s rights in alignment with the Beijing Platform for Action. The Fijian government has continuously showcased its proactive stance on gender equality, reinforced by past acknowledgments from Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya, who has highlighted the representation of women in leadership and educational settings—57% of graduates from tertiary institutions being female.
These discussions reflect a positive trajectory towards overcoming entrenched societal challenges, with Fiji taking significant steps to ensure women’s empowerment and leadership. The upcoming five-year gender equality accountability initiative, set to launch in early 2024, signals a promising commitment to translating these advancements into actionable outcomes for women and girls in Fiji.
Through these collective efforts and collaborative partnerships, Fiji aspires to create a more equitable society, fostering hope for future progress in women’s rights within the Pacific region and beyond.
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