Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, has expressed concerns regarding the Fiji police’s lack of understanding of universal human rights. Her remarks came during a rally in Suva that marked the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, which began on November 25.
The march, organized by the Fiji NGO Coalition for Human Rights, aimed to draw attention to a range of human rights issues both domestically and internationally. Ali emphasized the importance of such events in raising awareness about human rights violations, particularly violence against women and the quest for decolonization in regions like West Papua.
Ali highlighted that participation in the march was restricted by the authorities, which limited the number of participants and even prevented the display of political messages, including shirts related to Palestine, Kanaky (New Caledonia), and West Papua. She indicated that lawyers had to intervene to uphold people’s rights to express themselves during the event.
Furthermore, Ali voiced her concerns about how international diplomacy influences Fiji’s approach to marches and human rights issues. She criticized the Fijian government for its stance on Israel and its silence concerning the Palestinian crisis, suggesting that economic and diplomatic interests have overshadowed human rights principles.
The march concluded with a rally at Suva’s Bowling Club, featuring informational booths, a youth corner, and displays aimed at fostering broader community engagement and dialogue around human rights.
This ongoing activism serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for human rights even in the face of obstacles, indicating that voices for justice and equality continue to resonate strongly in Fiji. While challenges remain, the resilience of advocates like Ali provides hope for future progress.
In summary, despite governmental restrictions and international political complexities, the march in Suva underscores a robust commitment to human rights, inspiring continued efforts toward accountability and reform.
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