The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has reiterated its unwavering support for human rights defenders, highlighting their essential role in promoting fundamental rights and safeguarding human dignity through peaceful and non-violent efforts. The Commission emphasizes that the work of these defenders is crucial for fostering a just and inclusive society, thereby strengthening the foundations of democracy in Fiji.
The Commission points out that the Fijian Constitution upholds the freedoms of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly, and association. These rights are vital for civic participation, accountability, and national development. Nonetheless, it issues a caution that these rights must be exercised with responsibility, emphasizing that they should not be used to propagate hate, harassment, or incite violence.
This statement comes in light of recent incidents following Human Rights Day 2025, where activists and human rights defenders faced targeted online abuse. The Commission condemns such acts, stating they infringe upon the rights of individuals, erode human dignity, and harm social unity. It firmly denounces all forms of intimidation, harassment, and hate, asserting that all human rights defenders—including women—should be able to conduct their work in a safe environment, free from any form of online or offline threats.
Furthermore, the Commission calls on the government, Members of Parliament, institutions, and local communities to support human rights defenders. It urges these groups to foster respectful dialogue and to hold accountable those who violate others’ rights. The Commission articulates that while differing opinions are a natural part of society, hate speech and hostility have no place in Fiji. Ultimately, it asserts that a society committed to protecting its human rights defenders is one that also protects itself, paving the way for a more harmonious and just Fijian society.