The United Blind Persons of Fiji (UBP) has voiced urgent concerns regarding the new banknotes issued by the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) in December 2025, expressing the need for meaningful engagement with disability advocates. The organization highlights that the new currency fails to adhere to necessary accessibility standards, which adversely impacts the independence and dignity of blind and low-vision individuals.
As the representative body for those affected by visual impairments across Fiji, UBP reports that members face significant challenges in identifying the new banknote denominations independently. This deficiency complicates daily financial transactions, often making them not only difficult but also unsafe. UBP remarked, “Since the introduction of the new banknotes, our members have consistently reported difficulties in identifying denominations independently. This directly affects their ability to manage daily financial transactions with confidence, safety, and dignity.”
A key issue cited by UBP is the removal of size variations between denominations. Previously, a two-inch size distinction was in place, which was implemented in collaboration with UBP and substantially assisted blind and low-vision users. The newer banknotes lack this tactile differentiation, creating challenges in distinguishing various bills.
Additionally, UBP expressed disappointment over what it called a lack of genuine consultation during the design and development of these banknotes, particularly given its historic role in the Currency Committee. This concern is compounded by the success of previous consultations that resulted in enhanced accessibility features in earlier banknote series.
While the new banknotes include raised dot features to aid tactile identification, UBP criticized these as not meeting recognized Braille standards, rendering them ineffective for denomination identification. For instance, the raised dots on the $50 banknote do not correspond to any standardized Braille symbols, and similarly, the $100 banknote’s dot configuration provides no useful information.
These design shortcomings increase dependence on others for assistance, leading to potential financial miscalculations or exploitation, ultimately hampering the full economic participation of visually impaired individuals. In light of this, UBP urges the Reserve Bank of Fiji to acknowledge these concerns and engage in a productive consultation process with disability stakeholders. They insist on conducting a comprehensive accessibility review of the current banknotes and implementing international best practices for both tactile and visual currency accessibility in future designs.
“Accessible currency is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right,” UBP emphasized, underlining the importance of access to financial resources for economic independence, personal safety, and dignity. The organization also pointed out Fiji’s commitments under the Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2018, the National Disability Policy 2024–2033, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, insisting that these obligations be reflected in the design of the nation’s currency.
This renewed call for action serves as a crucial reminder of the need for inclusive economic frameworks that consider the rights and needs of all citizens, including those with disabilities. By fostering greater collaboration and understanding, there is hope for a future where everyone can participate fully in the nation’s economic landscape.