The fear of social media attacks remains a significant obstacle for women in leadership roles, according to Sashi Kiran, the Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. During a panel discussion held by Dialogue Fiji in Suva, Ms. Kiran highlighted that the lack of mentorship is also a critical factor.
“People express their fear of social media and the bullying associated with it,” Ms. Kiran noted. She shared that women often worry about the repercussions of being photographed in public, questioning whether such images could be weaponized against them, thereby affecting their families and communities.
Additionally, Ms. Kiran mentioned that even women in high-level managerial positions frequently feel unprepared for their roles. “Many do not believe they have received adequate training or emotional and mental support,” she stated. “Interestingly, women report that as they become ready for leadership, they experience increased self-doubt, which was particularly noted by a management group in HR.”