The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, has noted that despite more than 50% of women graduating, this does not result in equivalent participation in the formal economy. Speaking in Parliament, she emphasized the evident disconnect between education and labor involvement for women.
Tabuya highlighted that this issue is part of the development of the Fiji women’s economic plan, which aims to improve access to financial resources for women. In her address, she introduced the gender transformative institutional capacity development initiative, designed to implement gender mainstreaming in ministries and agencies with a focus on planning, budgeting, and policy-making.
She pointed out the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles across both public and private sectors. Additionally, she clarified for the public the distinction between ‘gender transformative’ and ‘transgender’, addressing misinterpretations stemming from social media discussions and criticism regarding the initiative.
The Minister also cited advancements in social protection policies aimed at supporting women through various programs, including family assistance schemes, disability allowances, and transportation allowances. She expressed gratitude towards the relevant ministries, particularly for their support in focusing on women’s needs in microfinance.
Tabuya raised concerns about technology-facilitated gender-based violence and women’s health issues, particularly cervical cancer, which is the leading cause of death among women in Fiji. She acknowledged the efforts of the Minister for Health in developing policies to combat this issue.
Looking ahead, Tabuya announced Fiji’s upcoming participation in the regional review at the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference in Thailand from November 19 to 21, where Fiji has been nominated as vice chair. In preparation, the Ministry plans to collaborate with civil society organizations and faith-based groups to present findings at the conference, with support from the UN Women and the UN Human Fiji multi-country office.