Fiji has shown notable progress, improving three spots to rank 69 out of 100 in the 2025 Freedom of the World index released by Freedom House. While 100 indicates a fully “free” country, Fiji is identified as “partly free,” reflecting both advances and ongoing challenges in the realm of political rights and civil liberties. Specifically, the nation received a score of 28 out of 40 for political rights and 41 out of 60 for civil liberties.
This upward trend aligns with recent enhancements in civil society and media freedom, characterized by a move from an “obstructed” status to “narrowed,” as reported by the CIVICUS Monitor. The government has made strides to better the civic space, including repealing a restrictive media law and lifting travel bans on government critics, both of which have contributed to a more favorable environment for civil rights.
The positive momentum is significant, especially considering that Fiji’s press freedom has also improved dramatically, advancing 45 places to rank 44 out of 180 countries in the Reporters Without Borders 2024 index. The repeal of the Media Industry Development Act and increased support for independent journalism signal a promising shift towards greater transparency.
Fiji’s advancements in civil and media rights depict a collaborative effort between the government and civil society, nurturing a culture of openness and accountability. However, ongoing challenges, such as the restrictive Public Order Act, remain critical issues that need addressing to solidify these gains.
With continued reforms and engagement with civil society, there is optimism that Fiji can enhance its democratic standing and uphold the rights and freedoms of all citizens as it moves toward a more open society by 2025. This hopeful outlook reflects Fiji’s potential to inspire other nations in the region pursuing similar paths toward greater freedoms and democratic values.
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