The Fijian government has expressed growing concern over the rising instances of illegal and illicit trading related to traditional knowledge and cultural expressions. This alarm was raised by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad at the Consultation Reflection on the National Strategic Development Plan for the Culture Sector, held at Yadua Bay Resort.
Prasad stressed that the integration of cultural elements into various national policies—such as education, health, and economic growth—is crucial for the successful implementation of the National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050. He underscored that Fiji’s cultural diversity, derived from its various ethnic communities, is vital to fostering national unity.
He also pointed out that Fiji is facing significant threats from climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events, which endanger sacred traditional sites and heritage structures. Prasad urged local communities to adopt sustainable practices rooted in traditional knowledge to address these challenges adequately. He highlighted the financial repercussions that arise when commercial entities exploit traditional knowledge without proper consent, reinforcing the pressing necessity for the Traditional Knowledge and Expressions of Culture Bill to protect these cultural assets.
Additionally, the Deputy Prime Minister mentioned that one of the coalition government’s goals is to craft educational curricula that embed cultural values among younger generations. To align with this objective, a multi-ethnic policy framework is being developed to guide strategic goals and initiatives that represent all ethnic communities in Fiji.
Prasad’s remarks echo the broader commitments of the government to enhance cultural awareness and seamless integration into various sectors. This initiative is linked to the efforts of the Department of Culture, Heritage, and Arts, which is working toward establishing a Cultural Statistics Framework aimed at informing evidence-based policymaking.
The current focus on preserving culture, enhancing education, and encouraging community participation paints a hopeful picture for safeguarding Fiji’s rich heritage. As the government advances these cultural initiatives, there lies a potential for a vibrant future where Fiji’s diverse cultural practices are not only protected but also celebrated, contributing to a cohesive national identity and resilience against modern challenges.
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