The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has praised the Fiji Government for its dedication to human rights and efforts to address systemic discrimination. This acknowledgment came during the United Nations Human Rights Council’s fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), held on January 22, 2025. Attorney-General Graham Leung led the Fijian delegation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to restoring the Commission’s accreditation to A status with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI).

Commission chair Pravesh Sharma noted the importance of the government’s initiative to enhance the independence of the Commission and reform the appointment process for Commissioners, aiming for greater plurality and independence. He highlighted the government’s recognition of the Commission’s resource constraints and the necessity for continued financial investment, as well as the potential for improved capacity and infrastructure.

Sharma commended the government’s strategic focus on advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, combating gender-based violence, tackling human trafficking, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The Commission awaits the government’s prioritization of key optional protocols and looks forward to recommendations that will strengthen actions against gender-based violence and other pressing issues raised during the UPR.

The Commission congratulated the Fijian Government for its commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights, viewing this review as an opportunity to reinforce Fiji’s standing as a nation that prioritizes human dignity and the rights of its citizens.

As Fiji navigates the UPR process, there is optimism that the government’s actions will align with the recommendations provided by the UN, paving the way for meaningful reforms and advancements in human rights protections. This progressive approach emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and civil society, fostering a brighter future for human rights in Fiji.