A Fijian women’s rights advocate and human rights campaigner has expressed concerns that local police lack an understanding of universal human rights. Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, made these remarks during a recent march in Suva, organized to conclude the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, which began on November 25.

This event, coordinated by the Fiji NGO Coalition for Human Rights, aimed to raise awareness of various human rights issues both in Fiji and across the globe. Ali highlighted that the march served as a significant platform to address issues such as violence against women, systemic impunity, and the ongoing call for decolonization in regions like West Papua.

Despite the importance of the march, Ali voiced her discontent regarding restrictions imposed by authorities that limited participants’ involvement. Typically, the event attracts around 800 attendees when a permit is granted, but this time, limitations were enforced on carrying banners and wearing political shirts expressing solidarity with Palestine, Kanaky (New Caledonia), and West Papua. Ali noted that lawyers were present to defend participants’ rights against these restrictions.

Moreover, Ali expressed her concerns about the impact of international diplomatic influences on local activism, particularly regarding the Fiji government’s support for Israel and its silence on the violence against Palestinians. She criticized the prioritization of political and financial interests over human rights, stating that this creates a disconnect between governmental policy and the views of the broader Fijian population, many of whom oppose the government’s stance.

She lamented the growing disregard for human rights worldwide, citing recent events such as the US election and the rise of social media narratives that contradict fundamental human rights principles.

The march concluded at Suva’s Bowling Club, where participants engaged in a rally featuring informational booths and discussions aimed at fostering broader conversations on human rights issues.

This event exemplifies the ongoing struggle for human rights advocacy and the importance of community engagement in addressing these critical issues. As activists like Shamima Ali continue to push for accountability and visibility, there is hope for progress and change, not only in Fiji but globally.