The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) is joining forces with various civil society organizations across Asia and the Pacific to push for enhancements in justice systems that cater to women and girls. This collaboration comes to light during significant regional discussions in Bangkok, Thailand, where FWRM’s Executive Director, Nalini Singh, highlighted the urgent need for these justice systems to be stronger and more accessible.
With over 25 years in women’s rights advocacy, Singh underscored the challenges faced by Pacific women in navigating multiple justice avenues, which include police, courts, customary authorities, and religious leaders. The lack of cohesion among these entities often results in women experiencing systemic gaps, primarily when reconciliation is favored over accountability. Such fragmentation can lead to referrals, delays, or informal settlements that may leave many women without the necessary protection and justice.
Advocating for practical reforms, Singh emphasized the importance of enhancing frontline responses that aid women in maneuvering through these complex justice frameworks. She articulated that the emphasis should be on enforcing existing laws effectively to ensure safety and reliability for women, rather than creating new legislation.
Supporting Singh’s call to action, Noelene Nabulivou, Executive Director of Diva for Equality, urged governments in the Asia-Pacific region to champion an International Decade to Advance Access to Justice for Women and Girls, proposed for the years 2027 to 2036. This initiative aims to strengthen global movements focused on improving access to justice for women.
The discussions and outcomes from these meetings in the Asia-Pacific region are set to inform future advocacy efforts at the upcoming 70th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), where ensuring access to justice for women and girls remains a pivotal global objective. The collective actions of these organizations mark a promising move towards establishing a fairer justice system for women and girls throughout the region.