The Minister for Women and Children, Lynda Tabuya, has called for a collaborative effort between the Government and Opposition in Fiji to enhance human rights. Speaking at a media event following International Human Rights Day, Ms. Tabuya highlighted the necessity of finding common ground to address the needs of all Fijians.
She stated the importance of bipartisan cooperation on issues impacting citizens, urging both sides of Parliament to strengthen their partnerships. “We need to develop better partnerships, even within the House, before we even go outside,” she emphasized, noting that more frequent collaboration is essential.
Ms. Tabuya pointed out that while government members often work together in standing committees, there is potential for greater involvement of opposition members in government initiatives, such as the Anti-Pornography Task Force aimed at combatting online exploitation of children.
She remarked, “We need to be united on issues related to children and pornography,” stressing that legislative changes will require support from the entire House. Furthermore, she affirmed the accountability of both the government and opposition in addressing human rights issues, indicating her own commitment as a Minister.
“Building allies within government will hopefully move the needle, just a little bit. But it’s movement in the right direction,” Ms. Tabuya said, encouraging open dialogue between the two sides as a vital step toward creating a more inclusive and accountable framework for human rights in Fiji.
This call for bipartisanship is promising for the future of human rights in Fiji, as it opens the door for collaborative efforts that could lead to significant legislative changes and a stronger commitment to safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
In summary, the Minister’s appeals for unity and collaboration signal a hopeful advance in human rights advocacy in Fiji, fostering an environment where dialogue can drive positive change for the nation.
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