Fiji’s youth will take center stage again as the 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament returns after a lengthy hiatus, giving 58 young people a hands-on glimpse into the life of a lawmaker. Over four days, participants will learn parliamentary procedures, engage in debates, and raise issues that affect local youths, with the final day featuring a full parliamentary sitting where they will deliver speeches and work through simulated legislation.
The program is designed to empower the next generation of leaders by providing a platform to voice peers’ concerns, represent their communities, and practice the mechanics of governance. It mirrors a broader trend of youth and civic engagement programs in the country, which have included similar mock-parliament exercises that emphasize practical skills, public speaking, and policy development.
Past initiatives in Fiji’s parliamentary simulations have also highlighted how personal stories can drive policy discussions. For example, sister programs focusing on women’s leadership—such as the 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament—which drew 55 participants from regions like Labasa, Koro, and Ovalau, underscored the importance of inclusive representation and policy knowledge in addressing national challenges. Reports from those events highlighted motions on maternal healthcare funding in rural areas, environmental conservation, and expanding women’s representation in decision-making, illustrating how participatory formats can translate lived experiences into concrete governance conversations.
The organizers say the Youth Parliament aims to equip participants with real-world skills, confidence, and networks that can fuel future careers in public service or community leadership. By giving youths a voice for their colleagues, friends, and communities, the program seeks to strengthen Fiji’s leadership pipeline and foster a more engaged, informed citizenry.
What to watch for next
– Fresh perspectives from a diverse group of youths shaping debates on issues affecting young people today.
– The dynamic of parliamentary procedure, including committee work and the drafting of mock legislation.
– The potential for inspiring success stories as participants carry lessons from the four-day experience into future studies or careers in public service.
In brief, the return of the Fiji Youth Parliament signals a hopeful step toward broader youth involvement in governance and a strengthening of Fiji’s democratic culture. This momentum, alongside parallel initiatives that elevate youth and women’s leadership, suggests a future where more young voices help shape the nation’s policies and priorities. Summary: A four-day, 58-participant program that simulates a full parliamentary sitting to empower Fiji’s youth with practical governance skills and a platform to advocate for their communities.
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