Building social cohesion requires individuals to first heal and reconcile their differences within their own lives, relationships, families, and communities. This message was delivered by Sashi Kiran, Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, during the closing remarks of the Negotiations and Mediation Training at the Pearl Resort on Friday.
Kiran emphasized the importance of personal practice in utilizing negotiation and mediation skills, stating that one can only provide what they possess. She urged participants to apply these skills to their own lives to better understand their impact before using them with others.
According to Kiran, every individual contributes to the collective peace of the universe, highlighting an initiative introduced by the Prime Minister for an “ocean of peace,” which has received positive feedback from both regional and global partners. She affirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to fostering social cohesion and healing in Fiji.
Reflecting on the consultation process for the Truth and Reconciliation Bill, Kiran noted that it uncovered profound emotional wounds as participants shared their experiences. Young people expressed how the past affects them not only through stories but also through the suffering observed in their parents and grandparents.
Kiran acknowledged the burden of historical pain carried by the country and the need for safe spaces where individuals can share, unburden, and heal. She mentioned the establishment of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a hopeful step in creating these spaces.
Failure to address these issues, she warned, would result in passing down narratives of pain to future generations, depriving them of a hopeful and peaceful future.