No Ministry of Men Needed in Fiji, Says Women’s Rights Leader

The executive director of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM), Nalini Singh, has expressed her belief that the government is already addressing men’s issues through existing mainstream ministries. Her comments come in response to a senior pastor’s recent suggestion for the establishment of a ‘Ministry of Men.’

Singh emphasized that men’s concerns are not overlooked, but rather integrated into various government sectors. She highlighted that while men’s interests have traditionally been embedded within the state’s framework, women’s interests have required intentional inclusion due to historical inequalities. The FWRM aims to correct these imbalances by ensuring that women and girls gain equal access to rights and opportunities, rather than prioritizing women over men.

She outlined how current governmental initiatives tackle men’s health issues such as prostate cancer and the struggles associated with mental health, suicide, and substance abuse. Ministries focused on education and labor are working to improve boys’ school retention rates and address youth unemployment. Additionally, justice and policing systems are designed to support men affected by crime and violence, alongside social welfare initiatives promoting responsible fatherhood.

Singh underscored the benefits of promoting gender equality for all, including men. She pointed out that initiatives aimed at reducing violence and challenging harmful gender norms create healthier environments, ultimately enhancing family well-being and fostering stronger societal cohesion.

Research shows that societies with a higher degree of gender equality tend to experience lower violence rates and improved mental and physical health outcomes for everyone. Rather than advocating for a separate ministry, Singh questioned how governments could better address men’s needs while simultaneously combating systemic gender inequalities. She argued for a fair and inclusive society that requires both dedicated institutions to correct inequalities and responsive systems that support the needs of all individuals.