FIJI Rugby is making significant strides in establishing a safer and more inclusive environment for players and staff within the rugby community. This initiative sets a new standard globally as the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) board members were officially inducted into the FRU Workplace Harassment, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Safeguarding Policies during their recent board meeting.
This important move follows the formal adoption of these policies last year. The newly established framework was introduced to staff and management at Rugby House, with dedicated staff members undergoing extensive training to ensure the successful implementation of these vital measures. The FRU aims for these protective initiatives to permeate from the administrative offices to the very core of rugby in Fiji.
“Our goal is to extend these initiatives down to the grassroots level, ensuring that every player and member of the rugby community benefits from a safer environment,” the Union emphasized, highlighting their commitment to inclusivity and safety.
The development of these policies has been guided by a team of experts, including Tevita Seruilumi, consultant Tessa Walsh, and Tirahni Uluinakauvadra, who serves as the Rugby Participation & Pathways Programs Manager for the Oceania Region. The initiative is framed as being about more than just the sport itself; it embodies core values of respect, equality, and safety.
Through establishing structured national pathways, Fiji Rugby is focused on building a future where the sport is safe and accessible for everyone involved. This vision not only enhances the atmosphere of the sport but also reflects a progressive approach to creating a rugby culture that prioritizes the overall well-being of its community.