As Fiji nears its next general election, Parliament remains steadfast in its mission to bolster youth and women’s participation in the democratic process. Speaker of the Parliament, Filimone Jitoko, expressed great satisfaction with the success of the recent 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament, a key initiative held from September 8-12, aimed at nurturing future leaders. This event was a continuation of the country’s efforts to meaningfully engage young citizens in democracy.
Jitoko extended gratitude to Parliament members for their roles in mentoring Youth Parliamentarians during their mock sessions and affirmed plans for additional sessions aimed at encouraging young women to participate more actively in politics. He announced that both the Youth Parliament and a Women’s Parliament would be held the following year, before the general election, to further inspire youth and women to engage in national politics.
These initiatives reflect a growing movement to invigorate Fiji’s political landscape with diverse voices. Similar programs, such as the Women’s Mock Parliament, have shown the inspiring impact on young aspiring politicians. These mock parliaments have not only highlighted the importance of improving women’s representation but have also been pivotal in addressing broader issues like healthcare and environmental policies.
The Youth Parliament, which brought 58 young participants together, has become a crucial platform to cultivate a diverse and inclusive representation in governance. Participants have been praised for their earnest engagement, debating national issues and honing their leadership skills, with hopes that such initiatives will lead to a governance structure that better reflects all sectors of society. The program continues to empower future leaders by providing them crucial insights into parliamentary processes while encouraging a trajectory towards more equitable governance.
Such initiatives underscore Fiji’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of leaders through active civic participation. They hold the promise of diversifying the nation’s policymaking landscape, ensuring that young people and women have the platforms and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to Fiji’s democratic future. By investing in these platforms for empowerment, Fiji positions itself for a promising future where leadership reflects the full spectrum of its populace.