In a significant push for gender equality in Fijian politics, the University of Fiji has proposed public funding for political parties that demonstrate commitment to women’s representation. Vice Chancellor Shaista Shameem highlighted that this funding should be contingent on political parties ensuring that at least 40% of their members are women. She emphasized the need for a proactive stance by political parties, stating that the responsibility to increase women’s representation lies with them rather than solely being a legislative issue.
Shameem made these remarks during the Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Electoral Reform when questioned about enhancing women’s presence in Parliament. The current representation data is stark, with only five women currently serving in the 54-member Fijian Parliament, a decline that mirrors a broader national concern about women’s political participation.
Salote Malani, founder of the proposed Hearts With Vision Party, echoed the urgency of the situation, advocating for reserved seats specifically for women to rapidly address the diminishing representation. She noted that efforts to include various ethnicities in governance had succeeded, indicating that a similar approach for women could be equally effective.
These discussions around women’s political representation in Fiji align with ongoing dialogues from various advocacy groups and political leaders, stressing the importance of systemic reforms. Notably, the already alarming statistics reveal a drop in women’s parliamentary representation from 20% in 2018 to just 14% after the 2022 elections.
The advocacy for reserved seats and commitments from political parties reflect a growing consensus among community organizations and political actors towards creating a more inclusive governance structure that accurately mirrors Fiji’s diverse population.
Moreover, the need for comprehensive reforms has been underscored by various stakeholders, including Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has supported the call for a quota-based system to reinforce women’s roles in politics.
The ongoing conversations and proposals surrounding this critical issue signal a hopeful trajectory for gender equity in Fiji’s political landscape. With concerted efforts from all sectors of society, there is potential for meaningful reform that could empower women to lead and influence national policy effectively. This could foster a more representative and inclusive political environment where all voices are heard and valued.
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