As Fiji gears up for its upcoming general election, the Fijian Parliament remains resolute in its mission to enhance the involvement of youth and women in the democratic process. The Speaker of the Parliament, Filimone Jitoko, expressed immense satisfaction with the success of the recent 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament, a significant initiative conducted from September 8 to 12, designed to nurture emerging leaders. This event builds on the country’s ongoing efforts to engage young citizens meaningfully in democracy.
Jitoko conveyed his gratitude to Parliament members who mentored Youth Parliamentarians during their mock sessions and announced plans for further sessions aimed at encouraging the active participation of young women in politics. He revealed that both the Youth Parliament and a Women’s Parliament would be organized in the following year, ahead of the general election, to further incentivize youth and women to engage in national political discourse.
These initiatives are part of a broader movement to revitalize Fiji’s political arena with a greater diversity of voices. Programs similar to the Women’s Mock Parliament have had a profound impact on young aspiring politicians, underscoring the necessity of enhancing women’s representation and tackling broader issues such as healthcare and environmental policies.
The Youth Parliament, which assembled 58 young participants, has emerged as a vital platform for cultivating diverse and inclusive representation in governance. Participants were commended for their earnest involvement in debating national issues and developing their leadership skills. Such initiatives hold the promise of resulting in a governance structure that better mirrors all sectors of society. The program continuously empowers future leaders by providing them invaluable insights into parliamentary processes, promoting a path towards more equitable governance.
These initiatives reflect Fiji’s dedication to fostering a new wave of leaders through active civic engagement. They promise to diversify the nation’s policymaking landscape, ensuring that young people and women have the necessary platforms and skills to meaningfully contribute to Fiji’s democratic future. By investing in these empowerment platforms, Fiji is positioning itself for a promising future where leadership represents the full spectrum of its population.