Reviving Democracy: Youth Parliament Returns to Empower Future Leaders

The recent announcement by Minister for Women Sashi Kiran confirms that the Youth Parliament is set to take place this year after a three-year hiatus, with the last event held in 2022. This revelation was made during a panel discussion on women’s political participation at the University of the South Pacific, which focused on eliminating discrimination against women.

Sashi Kiran emphasized the significance of the Youth Parliament in nurturing the confidence of young individuals in leadership roles. “It is important for youths to participate in school elections to gain the exposure and experience needed for future political roles,” she stated. She also mentioned that many women who participated in previous Mock Parliaments expressed interest in running for local government elections.

With the upcoming review of electoral laws, Kiran expressed hope that these changes will promote greater involvement of women in politics. She recognized cyberbullying as a significant barrier hindering women’s advancement in this arena. “Despite the government’s efforts, it remains a reality for many young women,” she noted.

Events like the Youth Parliament, combined with initiatives such as the Women’s Leadership program, are seen as critical opportunities for empowering young women. By fostering discussions and experiences that reflect their lived realities, these programs aim to inspire and equip future generations of leaders.

The emphasis on building a robust leadership pipeline for young women is aligned with the goals of the recent 2024 Women’s Mock Parliament, which highlighted the critical need for increased representation of women in national decision-making. Participants from diverse regions engaged deeply with issues affecting maternal healthcare and environmental policies, revealing that what may be viewed as women’s issues are, in reality, national concerns.

Overall, the forthcoming Youth Parliament represents a hopeful step toward not only enhancing young people’s leadership skills but also actively working toward a more equitable political landscape in Fiji, where women’s voices and perspectives are vital for addressing national challenges.