Despite women comprising 49.3 percent of Fiji’s population, they remain significantly under-represented in the labour force, according to Sashi Kiran, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection. Speaking in Parliament, Kiran highlighted that many women are still predominantly working in the informal sector, which is marked by low wages, job instability, and little to no social protection.
Kiran emphasized that women’s involvement in agriculture and sustainable livelihoods is often hindered by restricted access to vital resources such as land and fisheries. She particularly noted that rural women face considerable challenges, often having to travel much farther than their urban counterparts just to access basic financial services.
The minister pointed out the persistence of gender inequality in leadership and decision-making roles, indicating that women-led businesses are 2.5 times more likely to have their loan applications denied. These disparities not only hinder women’s economic advancement but also weaken the overall economy and obstruct inclusive growth.
Kiran advocated for the essential need to strengthen gender mainstreaming across 14 government ministries and agencies to combat entrenched inequalities and systemic barriers. “This approach ensures that development outcomes benefit every Fijian,” she stated, affirming the government’s commitment to fostering gender equality as a critical development priority.
She assured Parliament that extensive consultations with relevant ministries reflect a growing government recognition of the importance of gender inclusivity. Kiran’s Institutional Capacity Development Initiative aims to build a society where all Fijians, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or social status, can fully engage in and benefit from national development.
By reinforcing the capabilities of government agencies and promoting accountability and inclusivity, the initiative seeks to lay down the foundations for a fairer, stronger, and more prosperous Fiji. This comprehensive approach not only addresses pressing inequalities but also harnesses the potential of all Fijians to contribute to the nation’s growth.