Fiji’s Fight for Human Rights: A New Collaboration on the Horizon

Attorney-General Graham Leung recently met with Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al-Nashif to discuss enhancing collaboration in support of Fiji’s commitments to international human rights obligations. During this critical meeting, Leung underscored the significant obstacles Fiji faces as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) in fulfilling its reporting requirements under various international human rights treaties.

Leung pointed out that the challenges include limited resources, capacity issues, and vulnerabilities related to external factors like climate change, all of which hinder Fiji’s ability to meet its reporting and implementation deadlines effectively. In response to these concerns, Al-Nashif reaffirmed the support of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which will include deploying additional staff to the regional office in Suva. These personnel will work closely with local stakeholders and the Fiji Human Rights Task Force to streamline the reporting process and assist with implementing recommendations outlined in the human rights conventions.

The discussions also covered possibilities for technical assistance and the creation of an exchange program aimed at enhancing institutional capacity within Fiji. Such initiatives are expected to promote knowledge sharing and skill development, facilitating sustainable progress as Fiji strives to meet its international obligations.

The Attorney-General expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with the OHCHR, emphasizing the significance of international collaboration in addressing the unique needs of SIDS. This cooperation reflects Fiji’s unwavering commitment to advancing human rights for all its citizens despite facing considerable challenges.

The meeting came in the wake of the review of Fiji’s Human Rights Report during the 48th Session of the Universal Periodic Review Working Group held on January 22, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland.

Overall, this collaboration holds promise for enhancing Fiji’s human rights frameworks, demonstrating a proactive approach in overcoming challenges and ensuring the rights of its citizens.