The Fiji Women’s Forum (FWF) has emphasized the urgent need for the voices of Fijian women to be respected and included in decision-making processes. In a recent statement, the forum urged the government to enhance good governance, transparency, and meaningful engagement with the public, particularly regarding ongoing legislative reforms. While acknowledging the government’s commitment to reviewing several key laws, including the Education Act and electoral laws, the FWF expressed deep concerns over the hurried nature of these reforms and called for a pause for proper consultations.
The forum asserted that true democracy thrives on genuine public participation and criticized the lack of transparency in managing the nation’s ongoing economic crisis, which has seen Fiji’s national debt rise to $10.8 billion. They pointed out that the economic challenges disproportionately affect women, who often handle household finances, as rising living costs and stagnant wages continue to burden families.
Moreover, the FWF highlighted critical issues regarding public service delivery. Reports indicate that essential resources in schools and hospitals are still lacking, and rural communities struggle with limited access to services. To address these issues, the forum called on the government to improve healthcare and education services for all Fijians.
The FWF also highlighted the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles, stressing that women’s perspectives are crucial for shaping policies that address the real challenges faced by families and communities. They advocated for prioritizing voter education to empower citizens and ensure informed choices in elections.
In reaction, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, disputed some of the claims made by the FWF, particularly regarding wage stagnation, asserting that minimum wages have seen notable increases during the current government’s term. He also pointed to various measures implemented to alleviate living costs, including zero VAT on basic food items and debt forgiveness for families.
As discussions continue around these critical issues, there remains hope for progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society in Fiji. The call for improved governance and public engagement reflects a collective desire for positive change that benefits all citizens. Strengthening the voices of women and ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes are essential steps towards achieving a more democratic and prosperous future for the nation.
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