Recent statistics released by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics indicate that women constitute 38.5 percent of Fiji’s paid workforce, a notable achievement as many hold positions in professional and clerical roles. Out of the total 113,898 employees recorded in June 2021, 43,906 were female, revealing that women account for 13 percent of the professional workforce and 6.1 percent of clerical positions.
Despite these advancements, men continue to represent the majority of the workforce, making up 61.5 percent of paid employees. Their roles predominantly feature in service jobs, technical fields, and skilled trades, particularly within the private sector located in the Central Division. Among salary earners, the statistics reveal a stark divide: 30,844 were men compared to 24,848 women, while the figures for wage earners show 39,148 men versus 19,058 women.
The Fiji Bureau of Statistics emphasizes that this gender distribution signifies the ongoing need for initiatives that bolster female participation across various sectors. This aligns with previous studies, such as a World Bank report that highlighted a critical gender gap in employment that could potentially be closed to boost GDP per capita across the Pacific by an average of 22%. While the educational progress for women is evident, entrenched gender norms remain a barrier to their professional opportunities.
Moreover, other reports underline the importance of advocating for women’s representation, particularly in leadership roles where Fiji still lags behind, with only a small increase in female CEOs observed from 10% to 13% in recent years. The efforts to close these gaps resonate with the broader objective of empowering women to elevate their contributions to both the economy and society.
As these statistics showcase progress, they also highlight the challenges that remain. Continuous efforts towards gender equality and women’s empowerment can foster a more inclusive workforce and contribute significantly to national prosperity. Through collaboration among various sectors, Fiji has the potential to transform gender dynamics for a more equitable future. The increasing recognition of women’s skills and capabilities is a promising indicator of progress and hope for greater equality in the workforce.
Leave a comment