FWRM

Concert Used as Platform for Women’s Voices on International Women’s Day

8/03/2023

Hundreds of women’s human rights defenders and advocates, representatives of civil society and non-governmental organisations gathered today at the Fiji Museum verandah at FWRM’s If Women Stop, the World Stops concert to mark International Women’s Day in Suva.

‘What do we want?! Gender Justice! When do we want it?! Now!’ was chanted and echoed throughout the venue as women from intergenerational and diverse backgrounds took the floor to raise their voices and speak about their issues.

The fourth concert to be held by FWRM, the event is used as a platform to highlight barriers faced by women such as unpaid care work and decent work, violence against women and girls, lack of accessibility to services, disability rights and issues and patriarchal ideologies that perpetuate all forms of gender discrimination and injustices.

“We are proud to continue to provide spaces such as the If Women Stop, the World Stops concert to allow women to come and share their lived realities and experiences as well as provide them the chance to sit back, enjoy good music, dance and take the day off from the everyday “work” of being a woman,” FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh said.

Ms Singh also acknowledged veteran musician Laisa Vulakoro, her band and the female musicians that continue to partner with FWRM to hold the concert for the women.

“FWRM has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Laisa and her band and we are proud to have her on board to continue providing entertainment for this flagship event,” Ms Singh said.

FWRM joined the Women’s Global Strike global campaign in August 2019 and organised a solidarity action in the form of a concert on 6th March, 2020. The call for a global feminist strike action was initiated by the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD). The concert is now held annually and continues the global strike campaign.

"International Women's Day has is a day for women to demand their rights and this concert is our symbolic strike event against the systematic structures and the patriarchy that continues to be a barrier to women’s progress and gender equality," said Ms Singh.

The concert was supported by the We Rise Coalition.

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FWRM & femLINKpacific Joint Press Release

How low will they go?

29/07/2021

The Fiji Women's Rights Movement (FWRM) and femLINKpacific are deeply disappointed with the current demeaning statements made by top-ranking members of the Fiji government towards Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

These comments are also in bad timing, given that so much humanitarian assistance is being undertaken by NGOs in the absence of equitable state assistance. Unfortunately, some members of the Fiji First government display a basic misunderstanding of the nuances of democracy, the abuse of parliamentary privilege in defaming organisations and individuals in a legally protected environment, the role of NGOs and CSOs, and a lack of basic manners and etiquette.

It is sad to see the Fiji government resorting to labeling NGOs and CSOs, who represent a large constituency of people’s concerns, as “fools”, and shows a lack of understanding that the gateway to political involvement is only running for elections. The Fiji government seemingly fails to realise that a properly functioning democratic state involves all sectors of society in its politics through the fundamental rights of, amongst others, free speech and free assembly. It involves everyone because it affects everyone. This applies especially to NGOs and CSOs, whose explicit purpose is to improve society not only through direct action but through advocating for policies that are beneficial for all - i.e., politics.

Politics is more than running for election, and democracy is more than voting in these elections. They include the fair and equal participation of each and every free citizen in the running of their government, the right for every voice to be heard, and the moral obligation to treat each member and section of society fairly under the rule of law, not the fear of and acquiescence to authority figures.

The Fiji government has repeatedly attacked NGOs and CSOs stating that our political involvement is "very worrying for the nation." What is more worrying is a government which has repeatedly demonstrated its disregard for human rights, democracy, equality, and even basic professionalism, beginning with its foundation in the ashes of a coup. 

And lastly, the Honourable Ms. Selai Adimaitoga's loyal but sycophantic defence of Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is touching but unfortunately misdirected. We object to her petty defamatory statement made in Parliament on 26 July attacking the head of Fiji Women’s Crisis Center (FWCC), Ms. Shamima Ali, suggesting that she should resign because violence against women has increased during the pandemic. The Hon Member of Parliament should know better given her gender. What a disappointment she is to women in Fiji, increasing patriarchy, rather than fighting against it. She has failed to stand up for gender equality. Increased violence against women is a result of the pandemic and isolation, not the FWCC’s work. Ms. Ali has worked tirelessly for decades, with others, on a single, noble task which has been to end violence against all women and girls. 

Ending all forms of violence against women and girls is a key priority for national women’s rights organisations, as well as the Fiji government, who themselves recognize the fundamental root causes of violence. This is not the time to be insensitive and reckless in your parliamentary speeches on a prevalent issue that many Fijian women and girls are experiencing, even more so now in this pandemic.

NGOs and civil society organisations, like civil society itself, are here to stay regardless of whatever childish insults are directed towards us by people in high places.

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FWRM & FWCC JOINT PRESS RELEASE:

Women Challenge Gender Discriminatory Name Change Laws

30/12/2021

Seven women supported by the Fiji Women's Rights Movement (FWRM) and the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), have filed a constitutional redress case challenging the name change laws recently passed by the Government.

The case was called today before Chief Justice Kamal Kumar in the High Court in Suva, who gave time table directions for the filing of affidavits. He has fixed the case for hearing in late February 2022.

The plaintiffs include, Yashmin Nisha Khan, Adi Asilina Davila Toganivalu, Lavinia Rose Bernadette Rounds Ganilau, Shiromani Priscilla Singh, Elizabeth Catherine Reade Fong, Leba Seni Nabou and Salote Raikolo Qalo. They are represented by former Supervisor of Elections, Jon Apted of Suva law firm, Munro Leys.

The women who are all from different ethnic groups and political affiliations, are claiming that the name change laws are discriminatory against married women on the grounds of sex, gender and marital status and breach their constitutional rights to equality and to vote. They are claiming that the new laws also violate their constitutional rights to privacy, as well as to their cultural and social identity.

The defendants are the Attorney-General and the current Supervisor of Elections, who are represented by Devanesh Sharma of R. Patel.

The laws which are under challenge make changes to the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act  and the Interpretation Act 1967. They require Fijians to use only the name on their birth certificate for voting and other official purposes including for official identification documents. Under the new laws, Fijians who wish to use their married or adopted names for these purposes must formally change their names on their birth certificates in order to do so. The women believe that the new laws have a disproportionate, adverse impact upon married women compared to other groups.

FWRM, FWCC and other women’s non-governmental organisations have received complaints from hundreds of women about the new laws prompting the organisation to seek legal advice on their constitutionality. The two organisations have responded to the concerns of women who have approached them and provided support to the plaintiffs.

The case is non-partisan and crosses all political party lines with the two organisations coming together to protect the rights of at least one hundred thousand women of all ethnicities who are affected.

FWRM and FWCC consider that the rights to equality, voting and​ identity are fundamental and that the constitutionality of the new laws must be tested in the Courts.

The two organisations will also be seeking contributions from the community to help fund this case.

Although on the face, the new laws appear gender neutral, they disproportionately affect some 100,000 women, and add to women’s financial and time burdens by requiring them to change their names in so many legal documents.

Queries regarding the case may be addressed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 FWRM wishes you peace, happiness and good health for 2022.

For any other queries relating to this Press Release please email the FWRM Communications Officer, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 2136547

Prevalence and Impact of Sexual Harassment on Female Journalists:

A Fiji Case Study

The University of the South Pacific Journalism Programme &

the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement

PRESS RELEASE

3/05/2022

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement in partnership with the University of the South Pacific Journalism Programme, launched a research report on the, “Prevalence and Impact of Sexual Harassment on Female Journalists: A Fiji Case Study”, in Suva today. The launch event coincides with the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day.

This research is a follow-up to two groundbreaking FWRM studies in 2002 and 2016 into the incidence and nature of sexual harassment of women in the workplace in Fiji’s four major economic hubs in the country — Suva, Nadi, Lautoka and Labasa.

As it stands, many female journalists across the world continue to experience inequalities and harassment in the workplace, often at times with little to no action taken against the perpetrators. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), violence and harassment against women in the world of work impede women’s empowerment, and their active engagement and participation in the labour force.

According to the project manager and research lead, Associate Professor in Journalism Shailendra Singh, the study aimed to identify the problem, understand it, and make recommendations to address it.

"Females hold up half the sky in journalism in Fiji and the Pacific in that they constitute up to 50 per cent of the journalist workforce. Because we rely on them for news on which we make important decisions, and because we place such high expectations on them, we should be concerned about their wellbeing as well. Female journalists’ safety is a national concern, morally and for practical reasons because it impacts directly on their mental and physical health, and subsequently, on the quality of journalism," said Dr. Singh, the 2022 Australian National University Pacific Research Fellow.

The findings of this research report highlight the high prevalence and impact of sexual harassment in the Fiji news media sector, where up to half the journalist corps are women, many of whom are leading reporters and editors in the national scene. The overall aim of this research is to measure the prevalence rate of sexual harassment experienced by female journalists in Fiji, and provide holistic recommendations to address this issue.

The report documents the lived experiences of female journalists, majority of whom work in print, with the others choosing online and/or broadcasting. According to the women, the level of harassment at both the workplace and in the reporting field is high, with up to two-thirds reporting incidents. The harassment is predominantly verbal, but also very often gestural. Physical harassment is fairly common as well. Additionally, the women indicated that the types of sexual harassment is centered on women’s dress code, appearance, and as well as crude, sexual jokes.

“This issue of sexual harassment in the workplace is not a women’s rights issue only. It is on all of us to ensure that women are able to participate in the world of work, free from violence, harassment and any form of discrimination. We must do more to support women are speaking out, and even more so when gender based violence against women is prevalent is in this country.” said FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh.

Additionally, the report indicates the lack of awareness about sexual harassment and its impact on the victims. The lack of clarity about reporting mechanisms and redress is also a significant barrier and explains why some women choose not to report incidents. As this report argues, taking proactive steps by creating awareness is an important first step towards reducing the risks. 

“Fiji needs stronger commitment from employers to adopt and implement sexual harassment policies in their workplaces that are consistent with the Employment Relations Act. Police and justice sectors must take action.” said Ms. Nalini Singh.

The other researchers include Professor in Journalism at the University of Vienna, Folker Hanusch, USP Journalism Tutor Geradline Panapasa and Data Science lecturer Dr Karuna Reddy.

FWRM thanks the support and partnership of the USP Journalism Programme and the School of Pacific Arts, Communication and Education. We are hopeful that the findings of this research as well as existing work done will inform key action and approaches to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace for women in the world of work.

The publication is supported by the We Rise Coalition through the Australian Government.

ENDS

For more information please contact USP School of Journalism Programme Researcher Geraldine Panapasa on email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

To download the research, visit: http://www.fwrm.org.fj/publications/research-analysis

FWRM Appalled at “Gutter Level” Fiji Sun Report on Mereseini Vuniwaqa

15/08/2021

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement is appalled with the continued attacks and character assassination of some of our women parliamentarians by some in the mainstream media.

FWRM especially condemns the latest smear campaign against the outgoing Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Mereseini Vuniwaqa, in yesterday’s (Saturday 14/8/21) Fiji Sun (“the Fiji Sun”) Weekend newspaper. The Fiji Sun report, with carefully chosen photos against Ms. Vuniwaqa, is mischievous and makes lurid suggestions about her personal life that are unsubstantiated and clearly breach the Media Code of Ethics and Practice not to mention her right to privacy. Ms Vuniwaqa’s personal life is only a matter of public or national interest if there are some breaches of law or misinformation on her part - which the report does not show. None of what the Fiji Sun has reported is in the public interest or suggests that Vuniwaqa has acted unlawfully in her role as a Member of Parliament.

It appears from recent events that the outgoing Minister has been targeted by her political foes because of her lack of support of the recent amendment to the ITaukei Land Trust Act No 17 of 2021 popularly known as Bill #17. Women parliamentarians have to overcome more challenging obstacles than their male counterparts to enter and stay in parliament. Unfair public scrutiny, irrelevant comments about their dress, personal criticisms and sexual innuendos of the type seen in the report, not only damage personal and family lives but also discourage other women from standing as candidates in a male dominated institution.  

“This type of gutter reporting should be strongly condemned by all, as indeed has been done by many on social media platforms. It is unacceptable and detrimental to the great progress made by our women parliamentarians in the last decade,” FWRM Board Chair Makereta Waqavonovono said.

It is unfortunate that our journalists are not abiding by their code of ethics when reporting news stories .

Ms Waqavonovono also said such reporting deterred women in all diversities from engaging in political participation and national discussions at all levels.

Women in Fiji have made significant inroads in public and political life and have been prevented from having more elite portfolios due to sexual stereotypes that women can only “handle soft portfolios”.

“What is most concerning is that her case will discourage women from putting themselves forward for public and/or political positions  because of the fear of being unfairly scrutinised  in the media and other public platforms.”

We demand that the newspaper publicly apologise to Ms. Vuniwaqa. 

FWRM also urges the Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA) as the independent media regulatory body to take action in regular monitoring of its guidelines and ethical standards of the print and broadcast media in accordance with the Media Code of Ethics and Practice. 

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FWRM Concerned that Changes in the Electoral Laws on Name Change Discriminates Against Married Women, Interferes with Their Democratic Right to Vote

22/09/2021

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) is concerned about the suggested amendments to the Electoral Laws in regards to name change and how it will disproportionately affect a vast majority of married women in Fiji, who take their husbands’ names after marriage. The proposed bill is inherently discriminatory towards women, as well as being unconstitutional viz. the Bill of Rights which states that women may not be discriminated against on the basis of their sex and gender. 

Early last year, the Supervisor of Elections issued a statement that all Fijians must confirm their voter registration names with the names on their birth certificates. And now, we are at the cusp of having changes made to our current Electoral Laws in this same regard. 

This amendment is disproportionately discriminatory towards married women compared to men because the majority of women change their surnames during the process of their legal marriage registration, taking on their spouses' surnames. This process, however, does not automatically change the names on their Birth Certificate or their passports. Women are the only ones given the option to change their names during this process, which is in itself a discriminatory exercise.

At a time when the entire country is battling the COVID-19 pandemic, these women have to go through the significant inconvenience of travelling outside their protective bubbles and standing in long lines,  to change their names as per the suggested amendments, risking their own safety. They then have to change their licences, passports, identification documents for work, FNPF, and the list goes on.

“How is this promoting women’s equality?” asks Nalini Singh, the Executive Director of FWRM. “This makes hollow the government’s commitments under UN conventions and policy commitments to improve gender equality. After they change their birth certificates, they literally have to change so many other documents”.

Additionally, this new requirement only increases women’s financial and time burdens during these times of economic hardship, as they have to bear the transport costs, ensure care for their children and families,  line up and pay for the amended certificates, after which they have to confirm their voter identification details.  

FWRM is also concerned about women who are unable to access services to get their names changed. This will directly affect women’s ability to vote compared to men. 

FWRM strongly urges the Parliament not to pass this gender discriminatory and unconstitutional legislation, which will negatively affect thousands of women in Fiji.

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FWRM Concerned with lenient sentence in domestic child sex trafficking case 

8/02/2022 

The Fiji Women's Rights Movement (FWRM) is  extremely concerned by the lenient sentence meted by the Courts against a man charged for buying minors for immoral purposes. 

Simione Tugi was sentenced to 2.5 years imprisonment for the selling of a 16-year-old victim on two separate incidents to two different men for the purposes of sexual intercourse in exchange for money. The custodial sentence against Tugi for such detestable treatment and exploitation of a 16-year-old girl child is unacceptable! 

"In the 2014 High Court case of State v Raikadroka, the court discussed sentencing tariff for domestic trafficking in children and suggested  a sentence range starting  from between 10-16 years! In the same case, High Court Justice P.K. Madigan stated that “… trafficking a child for sexual services is more serious [than the crime of rape of a child], in that it is not one single act of violence but is the making available a child for innumerable sexual acts for money. “

The media reports are also silent on whether the court in this case followed any sentencing tariffs set by the courts in Fiji in similar cases.

“The leniency of the punishment sends the wrong kind of message - that we tolerate sexual crimes and that we do not prioritise the safety and protection of our children, the most vulnerable members in our society” FWRM Executive Director, Nalini Singh said. 

'Sexual violence is a prevalent and heinous crime in Fiji against women and girls. Statistics from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) showed that last year, a large percentage of the rape and sexual offence cases heard in Fiji's High Court were against victims/survivors under 18 years - 136 victims from the total of 196. Our own continuing analysis on Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls and Rape Cases heard in the higher courts also concluded this as an ongoing yearly trend since 2016. This is a sick portrayal of our society and there should be more urgency from everyone to address this issue’, she said.  

The FWRM analysis shows that from 2016 to 2021, the average age of sexual violence victims/survivors for the past 5 years in Fiji is under 17 years and the age of the youngest victims/survivors continue to be under the age of 5 years old. 

‘Girls already face layers of discrimination within our communities. What are we doing to create a safer community for these vulnerable members of society? We call for harsher sentencing! Less than three years of imprisonment is gross injustice while victims suffer life-long trauma,” Ms. Singh said. 

FWRM strongly reiterates the need for the Courts to ensure justice and accountability from offenders that commit such horrible crimes against children who have no voice, are vulnerable and rely on us to protect them from predators.  

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For media queries please contact FWRM Communications Officer Serelisoni Moceica This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 8677 330

FWRM Condemns and Calls for Renewed Effort against Gender Based Violence

04/05/2020

Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) is deeply concerned with news reports of a young woman that was allegedly stabbed to death by her partner in Naitasiri.

With the added stress emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, FWRM realises that the vulnerabilities of women and girls has increased even further.

FWRM along with other women’s rights organisations in an earlier press release, warned of a likely increase in domestic violence in lockdown situations.

“According to our research, it generally takes a woman more than 2.5 years to report domestic violence. With COVID-19 restrictions, this enforced isolation could mean the worst case scenarios for victims/survivors and those at risk,” Ms Nalini Singh, Executive Director of FWRM, said.

Ten women tragically lost their lives to domestic violence in 2019 and Ms Singh reiterated the need to prioritise responses to gender based violence during  this pandemic.

In this light, FWRM commends the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation for the formation of the Gender Based Violence (GBV) Working Group and the COVID-19 Response Gender Working Group to gauge the impact of COVID-19 on women and girls.

Additionally, news reports last week of the alleged rape of a 2 year old girl in Rakiraki is disheartening, particularly after continued analysis by FWRM notes, that the average age of the youngest victims/survivors of Sexual Violence and Rape Cases heard in the courts from 2016-2019, was under 5 years.

FWRM recently published the analysis of Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Cases in 2019 as part of our ongoing research and advocacy on strengthening Fijian women’s access to justice.

The analysis found that all victims/survivors of the 101 rape cases decided by the High Court last year were female. The oldest victim/survivor was a 63 year old woman whilst the youngest victim/survivor was 2 years and 11 months old child.

In all 101 cases of rape, all the accused were male, the youngest accused was 12 years old and the oldest at 83 years of age.

The average age of victims from 2016 to 2019 is 16 years old and 53 percent of victims were under 17 years of age.

“This is a sad reflection of our society. There is no excuse for such despicable acts of crime and we need to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and also address the deeply entrenched patriarchy in our communities which perpetuates violence against women and girls,” Ms Singh said.

If you are, or know of anyone at risk of, or subjected to domestic violence please call the Domestic Violence Helpline Number on 1560 and the Child Helpline on 1325.

The Sexual Violence Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2019 is available on the FWRM website here: http://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/Sexual_Violence_Against_Women_and_Girls_Rape_Case_Analysis_2019_updated.pdf

FWRM acknowledges the Courts Registry and the High Courts for their transparency and publication of these cases on PacLii.

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For more information contact Communications Officer Maryann Lockington at 8677330 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

FWRM Disturbed at Incidences of Sentence Reduction  For Serial Rapists 

3/04/2023

Marking Women’s Month which ended last week, the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) in its annual rape case analysis has found that out of the total 108 cases that were finalized in the Fiji High Courts last year, a discount was given by the courts for being a “first offender” in 2 out of 3 cases where the perpetrator committed multiple offending. 

Whilst there has been progress made in the past in excluding personal circumstances of an accused person, the first offender discount is still very much applied whilst sentencing.  By definition, a serial rapist is someone who repeatedly rapes over a period of time.

"FWRM is of the view that for gendered crimes such as sexual violence (in the form of rape) towards female victims, there needs to be stricter safeguards by the formal criminal justice system in sending a strong message to the community. The message should be - no discount for multiple offending," FWRM Executive Director, Nalini Singh said.

She added that if a perpetrator has violated a victim/survivor on multiple occasions then the “first offender” discount amounts to discrimination as it reinforces patriarchal notions of sexual offending whereby a woman’s body is objectified and violated in horrific ways. 

"Global best practices are now moving away from giving discounts to serial offenders including rapists and Fiji should work towards the same,” Ms Singh said.

The rape case analysis also concluded that the average age of the survivor/victim is 14 years old, and the average age of the perpetrator is 41 years old.

"In 70 percent of the cases, the victim/survivor knew the accused. The youngest victim was only two years old and the youngest perpetrator, 17 years old. A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) was issued for only 32% of all the rape cases heard in court. These disturbing findings shows theworsening situation for sexual violence in Fiji," Ms Singh said.

According to the annual statistics from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, for the year 2022 there were 322 people charged with a total of 768 counts of serious sexual offences as of 31 December 2022. There were 300 victims of whom 188 victims were under the age of 18

years. Of the 300 victims, 283 were female and 17 were male victims. There were 147 offences that occurred in domestic relationships or where the accused was known to the victims. The youngest accused person was a 12-year-old boy while the youngest victim was a 3-year-old girl. 

“With 94% of victims of serious sexual crimes being women and girls, there is no doubt that sexual crimes are gendered in its offending, and therefore we can assuredly say that sexual crimes in Fiji are a form of gender-based violence. We need continuous gender sensitisation training to challenge harmful behaviour against women and girls,” Ms Singh said. 

As the country moves towards recognising the ways in which gender discrimination and violence is perpetuated, we also need to be looking at ways in which access to justice can be better improved for women and girls who use the services of formal justice sector agencies.

The paper is a continuation of the annual rape cases analysis undertaken by FWRM since 2016 as part of our ongoing research and advocacy on strengthening Fijian’s women’s access to justice. 

We acknowledge the Courts Registry and the High Courts for their transparency in providing case judgments. We also thank the University of the South Pacific’s School of Law for managing the online platform www.paclii.org which contains case judgments used in this analysis.  

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For media queries please contact the FWRM Communications Officer Serelisoni Moceica on 8677330 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

The FWRM Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2022 here: https://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/Sexual_Violence_Against_Women_and_Girls_Rape_Case_Analysis_2022.pdf 

FWRM launches new research on Ageing women and Poverty in Fiji 

01/10/2020

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement commemorated the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons with the launch of its latest research on ageing women and poverty.

The research, “Ageing Women & Poverty in Fiji: A Preliminary Review of Global to National Commitments” is supported by the Australian Government through the We Rise Coalition. 

This publication presents a global and national profile of ageing women, key frameworks and mechanisms for action, and trends in poverty among ageing women. Efforts to analyse the trend in poverty specifically for older women in Fiji is a gap because of the limited data and research available.

“The analysis stems from FWRM’s 2017 scoping study on the status of ageing women in Fiji. Ageing women face multiple forms of discrimination and violence because of gender inequality throughout their life cycle and this is exacerbated by interlinked ageing issues such as health problems,” said FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh.

A key issue identified from the 2017 study was that ageing women's experience of poverty was significantly high and that many of the women in the study lacked financial autonomy and independence. Additionally, the women in the study stated that physical, emotional, psychological, and socio-economic support declined as people aged, leaving older women more vulnerable.

According to the newly released research, women currently outlive men by 4.8 years. This global gender gap is expected to narrow over the next three decades but not significantly. Additionally, older women are the majority of older persons in Fiji making ageing by majority a woman’s experience.

“In order to address the gendered impacts of ageing and the interlinked intersectional issues, it’s essential to strengthen social protection systems and schemes in Fiji to be comprehensive and gender-responsive,” said Ms Singh.

Fiji has international obligations to protect women’s human rights throughout their life cycle such as the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing. 

“This is imperative now more than ever as we’re seeing the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic on our population, particularly our ageing community. The Fiji Government is committed to this and we must ensure that we follow through.”

 “FWRM would like to acknowledge the support received from the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation towards compiling this research. We believe strongly in a collaborative approach towards gender equality and look forward to engaging more in the future,” said Ms Singh.

FWRM presented the research at the Social Welfare Department under the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation this morning.

The research is now available on the website here:

http://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/Ageing_Women/FWRM_Ageing_Women__Poverty_in_Fiji.pdf

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 FWRM marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism welcoming the government’s commitment to a National Action Plan against VAW.

25/11/2020

FWRM kicked off the 16 Days of Activism today as part of the historic launch for the consultation process of the Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG).

The launch of the consultations for the National Action Plan is particularly significant today as the women’s human rights movement marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls and the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. FWRM is part of the Technical Working Group for the NAP process.

FWRM commends the Fiji Government for their commitment towards the development of the National Action Plan.

“We would also like to acknowledge the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation (MOWCPA) Hon. Mereseini Vuniwaqa for her advocacy and support to promote gender equality,” said FWRM Executive Director, Nalini Singh.

“It was encouraging to hear the Fijian Prime Minister acknowledge the reality of the grave human rights violations that women and girls in this country face. We note his comments and recognise the efforts being put towards ending violence against women and girls.”

During his address, the Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama called for improved attitudes to end gender-based violence, recognising women’s equal contributions to society and challenging cultural norms that discriminated against women and girls. He also acknowledged the work of civil society and women’s human rights groups.

“It’s promising to hear statistics and issues that women’s human rights groups have worked persistently on for years be reiterated on a national platform by the highest-level leaders of our country. With the 16 Days of Activism, it is time that gender-based violence be given this national attention and platform because it affects all of us so closely,” said Ms. Singh.

 “At the same time, urgent action to address gender-based violence across all sectors of society is long overdue. We have a shadow pandemic on our hands that we have let go on for so long and it has had a great cost for families, women, girls, marginalised communities that have faced extreme discrimination and violence, and even the loss of lives.”

Last year, 10 lives were lost to domestic violence, as reiterated by the Prime Minister today. He highlighted that 64 per cent of Fijian women have faced intimate partner violence, a finding from the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre 2013 research. Despite the high rates of violence, women still face barriers accessing justice and reporting their issues.

It takes 868 days for a woman to report her issues of violence to the police, according to FWRM’s 2017 research. This was particularly evident this year as FWRM’s Access to Justice rapid assessment found that during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown there was a significant increase in calls to the domestic violence helplines but this did not correlate to the lower reports made to the police. In addition to this, sexual violence against women and girls is disturbingly high. For the period of 2016 – 2019, 62% of the victim/survivor has been under the age 17 years. This is from the rape case analysis being decided by the High Court. Workspaces are not safe either, with 1 in 5 Fijian women having had experienced sexual harassment in the workplace according to FWRM’s 2016 research.

“Building a country that is safe and free from violence and that respects all human rights is a responsibility that we all bear. We are pleased to see leaders at the national level pledge their support to end violence against women but this commitment must come from all of us as violence is happening within all our spaces, at home, in schools, in the workplaces, in Church and our communities,” said Ms. Singh.

“We encourage everyone to be part of the 16 Days of Activism, however they can. Share information, challenge cultural barriers, call out normalised toxic language, promote gender equality and dismantle patriarchy.”

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence culminates with World Human Rights Day on December 10, which is annually commemorated in Fiji with a march organised by the NGO Coalition on Human Rights.

END.

For media queries please contact Communications Officer Maryann Lockington on emailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mobile 8677330

FWRM offers Women’s Mentoring Programme again in 2023 

10/03/2023

Due to the overwhelming success of the inaugural Paying it Forward Mentoring (PiF-M) programme for mid-career women launched in 2021 on International Women's Day, Fiji Women’s Rights Movement is proud to announce today the commencement of the second round of the programme - PiF-M2.

 A total of 12 women have been shortlisted for interview, of whom 6 will be selected, from numerous applications received by the organisation. The mentees will undergo one-to-one mentoring, done virtually, by mentor and FWRM board member, Imrana Jalal.

“From the 7 women who participated in the program 3 went onto regional or more senior and more complex and challenging roles. All are firmly on a pathway to enhanced leadership. How to balance being a parent and an executive is one of the more difficult problems we tried to find coping skills for,” said Jalal. She said that “FWRM is proud to have been part of that journey” and that “this program is one of the most gratifying and rewarding things I have ever done”.

The mentoring programme was launched to guide and help mid-level career women through barriers faced at work and guide them on how to address the challenges to moving on to the next level of their careers.

"PiF-M2 offers guidance on how to break the glass ceiling and combat gender discrimination in the workplace. The program helps women who have faced challenges to advance their career and recognise opportunities,” FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh said.

This mentoring programme is specifically targeted at women (Fijian citizens only) aged 35 years – 45 years, at mid-career level with potential for advancement within their own fields and organisations and is delivered through the lens of feminism and gender equality.

According to a mentee of the first phase of the programme, PiF-M allowed her to analyse her professional capacity and provided guidance to move forward in her career.

"I had 12 sessions and each was so helpful to me as a person, a mum, a wife and as an upcoming executive in the company. This program made me overcome obstacles I’ve faced, prepared me to know how to overcome future obstacles and made me believe in myself and not be afraid to go for it! Thank you so much for equipping me to get to the next level I need to get to, and I

guarantee I will share the lessons I’ve learnt with Imrana to other women in my circles and networks," the mentee said.

Ms Singh said the year-long programme was tailor made for Fiji citizens only, targeting this specific group of women to help provide them support and guidance.

“This is another opportunity to support women at mid-career levels and to the growth of women who have the potential to be leaders in different areas of work. These are women who are often overlooked for promotions to top levels of management in the workplaces”, Ms Singh said.

Ms Singh said that in 2022, FWRM published a Perception Study on Leadership in Fiji that concluded that 69% of survey respondents indicated that “gender stigmatisation” decreased a woman’s chances of being a leader.

A previous survey carried out in 2020, on Gender Equality, diversity, and inclusion focusing on leadership in Fiji government-controlled boards found that in 38 state-owned enterprises, women’s participation is low, and below the global target of a minimum of 30% by 2020. Of 192 Board members in 38 Boards, women comprised only 21% of all Board members or 40 of 192. Ten of 38 Boards, or 26%, had less than 30% women participation.

“This is still less than the global target of 30% of women in all forms of decision making by 2020 set during the 1995 Beijing Platform of Action. Women’s participation in leadership is very low and it is our duty to help progress women into these spaces,” Ms Singh said.

As we commemorate International Women’s Day this week, FWRM hopes that more urgent efforts will be made to include women in decision making spaces.

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For media queries please contact the FWRM Communications Officer Serelisoni Moceica on  8677330 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

FWRM PR: Comprehensive sex education is critical to address teenage pregnancy and violence

23/11/2020

Women and girls must be empowered to understand and have access to fundamental information about their bodies. To deny them this knowledge will exacerbate issues of violence and social issues such as teenage pregnancy.

Recent reports in the media have been very disturbing and reflect a serious lack of awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). A high school student was hospitalised after allegedly giving birth in school. Unfortunately, the baby was found dead. Last week, a leaked sex video made headlines alleged to have a minor involved, a Year 8 student. There have also been reports on disposed foetuses found. It is critical for news media organisations to understand these issues and the harm that comes with sensationalising headlines. 

FWRM calls for more responsible, gender-balanced and ethical reporting from journalists as they play an important role in sharing information and debunking stereotypes and myths that undermine human rights and justice.

“It’s a disturbing reality that children as young as those in primary school are involved in sexual activities and finding themselves in dangerous situations. There must be meaningful age-appropriate[1] comprehensive sex education (CSE) for children to learn about safe spaces, bodily autonomy and having respectful relationships,” said FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh.

FWRM welcomes comments made by the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa calling for collective action to ensure that adolescents are given timely information and have efficient resources to curb issues related to sexual practices that are otherwise seen as taboo topics in our communities and schools.

“There needs to be some critical thinking and improved curriculum that allows teachers to unlearn the notion of “Sex Talk” as taboo in Teacher Training Institutions. The school curriculum on sexual health provides the foundation of knowledge that adolescents need to make decisions on their bodies,” said Ms Singh.

“The call for improved CSE has been an ongoing effort that FWRM and women’s groups,  young women and girls have advocated for consistently over the years through national budget submissions, outcome statements from young women-led fora and research analysis work. This comes in the back of high rates of unplanned and teenage pregnancies and violence against women and girls  ”

 CSE can play a role in ending discrimination and violence, and now more than ever, it is urgently needed to combat the growing threat against women and girls’ human rights.

[1] The reference to “age appropriate” is deemed to mean education that is “consistent with the evolving capacities of [children], adolescents and young people to be able to make responsible and informed decisions and exercise  their right to control all aspects of their sexuality, protect themselves from [sexual exploitation] and unintended pregnancy, unsafe abortion, HIV and sexually transmitted infections, to promote values of tolerance, mutual respect and non violence in relationships, and to plan their lives, while recognizing the role and responsibilities of parents, as well as of teachers and peer educators, to support them in doing so.” -DAWN Research

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For media queries please contact Communications Officer Maryann Lockington on emailThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mobile 8677330

01/07/2021

Press Release:

FWRM Rapid Assessment on Fijian Women’s Perceptions of COVID-19 Vaccine finds that51.5% of respondents considered taking herbal & traditional medicine if they developed any COVID-19 symptoms

 Fiji is seeing a worrying rise in COVID-19 cases with a total of 4418 cases since the first case was reported in March 2020 as reported by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services yesterday. It is even more concerning that the national 7- day average daily test positivity is 8.9% and is being projected to have an upward trend.

Whilst the Government has put forward advisories on safety measures during the pandemic and through the administering of the COVID-19 vaccine, it has become imperative that we address the perceptions of people relating to the vaccine. This would enable us to collectively work together in containing the virus.

In June, 2021, the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement conducted a Rapid Assessment on Fijian Women’s Perceptions of the COVID-19 Vaccine, supported by the Australian Government through the We Rise Coalition in partnership with Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development.

This Assessment was carried out to understand the perceptions of the Fijian women in relation to the COVID-19 vaccination as there is a lack of sex disaggregated data available on recipients of the vaccine.

“We are in an unprecedented health crisis and vaccination is a critical tool in helping to curb the number of deaths from COVID-19 and the associated risks but there are barriers to ensuring the wide impact of the rollout and this includes gender, level of education, economic welfare, family influences, access to information and services and more, thus the urgency for a survey that gauges perceptions of women who are often marginalised and vulnerable to all these barriers,  ” FWRM Executive Director, Nalini Singh said.

One of the key findings of the Assessment is that 42.3 percent of the Respondents had a mixture of negative and positive feelings about the vaccine and 10.6 percent were completely negative about taking the vaccine.

Whilst more than half of respondents of the Assessment  were determined to get vaccinated, the research found that 51.5 percent of respondents considered taking herbal and traditional medicine if they developed any COVID-19 symptoms.

The Assessment found that 58.4 percent of the Respondents had received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine and this correlated with the 83.7 percent of the Respondents being positive about vaccines in general. Further, 53.4 percent of Respondents who had received their first dose were keen to get the second dose once the opportunity was available.

The Assessment highlighted that education and income levels as significant factors in influencing the Fijian women’s perceptions and uptake of the vaccine.

“A total of 61 percent of respondents held an undergraduate degree and 23% a postgraduate qualification. Less than 15 percent held qualifications lower than a degree. This means that many of the respondents were literate and likely to be more informed about the vaccine influencing their decision to get vaccinated, “ Ms Singh said.

The health seeking behaviour of Fijian women was also analysed and the Assessment found that 69 percent of the respondents did not see herbal and traditional medicine as being a better substitute of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“It is extremely concerning that the Fijian women's perceptions around the COVID-19 vaccine is ranging from mixed to negative. This needs to be urgently addressed through collaborative approaches taking into consideration the health seeking behaviour of women,” Ms Singh said.

The Assessment also includes recommendations particularly on a communications strategy that factors social and cultural nuances to influence greater behavioural change, together with the provision of sex disaggregated data by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services on recipients of the vaccine.

A total of 574 women from around the country participated in the online survey to gauge their perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Rapid Assessment: Fijian Women’s Perceptions on COVID 19 Vaccines is available on the FWRM website here: http://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/Final_-_FWRM_Rapid_Assmt_WomenandCOVID19Vaccines.pdf

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FWRM Press Release 

FWRM Publishes Perception Study of Leadership Report

5/12/2022

The Fiji Women's Rights Movement, with the support of the UN Women and the Spotlight Initiative, launched the “Perceptions Study of Leadership in Fiji” in Suva on Friday last week.

The study, based on the views of 906 Fijians across the country found that issues that limited women's access to leadership spaces included gender stigmatisation, existing traditional status quo and culture.

The purpose of the research was to gauge people’s perceptions of leadership in Fiji and serve as a key document that provided a better understanding of preferred leadership styles.

"Women suffer from a confidence gender gap which makes them reluctant to proactively seek leadership. Investing in building women's confidence and leadership at the various levels of the pipeline that feeds national leadership is critical - whether that is at the level of community, local council, NGOs, public administration or corporate and SOE Boards, is critical. This is where women sharpen their political skills, and build their confidence," international human rights lawyer and FWRM co-founder Imrana Jalal said during the launch.

FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh said that all spaces and women's roles within them needed to be considered when planning initiatives to support women leaders.

"Leadership begins at an early age and continues to be expressed across many areas of women’s lives. The need to address women's barriers to leadership is of key importance and women's voices need to be heard," she said.

"The key findings of the research highlight that gender stigmatisation (41%), existing traditional status quo and culture (34%) were the main reasons that limits a woman's chance of becoming a leader. About 53 percent of the survey respondents agreed that culture influences leadership styles and perceptions in Fiji. The study showed that 35 percent of the survey respondents felt that support from loved ones is important and may increase a woman's chance of becoming a leader."

"This research is made possible because it is rooted in the knowledge, expertise and wisdom of local experts and civil society organisations who have been tirelessly working across Fiji for decades to advance gender equality, women's leadership and women's rights in all their diversity," Sonia Rastogi, Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Programme, Officer-in-Charge, from the UN Women Fiji Multi Country Office said at the launch.

Sonia said trust-based relationships can best accelerate strategies that promote gender responsive policy reforms and gender responsive measures for women's participation in politics.

The survey for the study was undertaken through survey monkey and face to face interviews. A total of 80 percent of the respondents were females aged between 24-41 years. The parameters of the research provide coverage around characteristics of a leader, who a person perceives as a leader, traits that a good leader may possess, different qualities and their level of importance, religious and cultural aspects that influence leadership along with other factors.  

FWRM thanks the respondents of the Perceptions Study on Leadership in Fiji and the significant contribution from each individual that participated in the survey. This Study has been conducted at a time where Fiji is preparing for the General Elections, as such the respondent’s contribution adds immense value to not only the assessment but also towards improving overall leadership aspects in Fiji. FWRM hopes that this research will inform every Fijian on identifying leadership styles and models.

To find out more of what Fijians perceive leadership to be, please access the report here https://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/35th/FINAL_Perception_Study_on_Leadership_in_Fiji_-_301122.pdf

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28/02/2022

FWRM Publishes Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2021

The average age of all victims/ survivors of rape cases finalised in Fiji’s High Courts in 2021 is 15 years old - the youngest at 3 years of age. The average age of the perpetrator of these crimes is 36 years old.

This is according to the latest Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2021 published recently by the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM). The paper is a continuation of the annual rape cases analysis undertaken by FWRM since 2016 as part of our ongoing research and advocacy on strengthening Fijian’s women’s access to justice.

‘These findings from the 22 rape cases finalised in our high courts last year reveal the disturbing prevalence of the sexual abuse of the girl child and worsening situation for sexual violence in Fiji. ’ said FWRM Executive Director, Nalini Singh.

FWRM carries out this analysis only on rape cases proceeding to trial and decided in the High Court every year, to analyse sentencing practices and trial procedures.

‘The way criminal trials of sexual offences are run indicate society’s attitudes towards sexual crimes, of which women and girls are overwhelmingly victims of. Gender bias and harmful stereotypes often creep their way into the most public of spaces,’ Ms. Singh said.

COVID-19 has also impacted access to justice by women and girls. Courts were essentially closed during lockdowns resulting in fewer cases being heard and disposed of (only 22 rape cases that proceeded to trial published for 2021).

FWRM recommends specialized courts with speedier, streamlined processes as the way forward during such crisis situations to ensure faster turnaround times for sexual violence cases.

‘In 64% percent of these cases, the victim/ survivor knew the accused. The continuous nature of child sexual abuse and exploitation is a stark reminder that we are a long way from ensuring safe spaces for children, especially the girl child, in Fiji,’ Ms. Singh said.

A permanent domestic violence restraining order was not issued in 6 cases to protect the victim/survivor where there was a domestic relationship between the perpetrator and the victim/survivor, and where the accused was found guilty of rape.

According to the 2021 annual statistics from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, an alarming 203 people were charged with a total of 461 counts of serious sexual offences as of 31 December 2021. There were 196 victims of whom 136 victims were under the age of 18 years (69%). Of the 196 victims, 182 were female (93%).

“Year after year, women and girls make up almost 100 percent of victims/survivors of sexual crimes. How is each one of us helping to resolve this? It is not just a women’s group issue, it is everyone’s issue - mindsets and attitudes need to change. We need to shut down behaviour that is harmful to women and girls,” Ms. Singh further stated.

FWRM also published the Trends Analysis between 2016 and 2021 which revealed that throughout this period, the average age of victims/survivors has been consistently under the age of 17 years. The age of the youngest victim/survivor continues to be under 5 years.

FWRM believes that continuous gender sensitization training is needed to challenge harmful practices against women and girls. Speedier redress mechanisms that are victim/survivor centered also need to be engaged.

We acknowledge the Courts Registry and the High Courts for their transparency and publication of these cases on PacLii and ODPP’s publication of annual sex disaggregated data on sexual offences.

Ends

For media queries please contact FWRM Communications Officer Serelisoni Moceica on

8677 330 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 (The FWRM Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2021 is avalable on the FWRM website here: http://www.fwrm.org.fj/images/A2J/2021_Rape_Case_Analysis.pdf )

FWRM Releases Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2020

12/02/2021

 The average age of sexual violence victims/survivors for the past 5 years in Fiji is under 17 years and the age of the youngest victims/survivors continue to be under the age of 5 years old according to FWRM’s Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls Rape Case Analysis 2020 published today.

 FWRM’s latest rape case analysis revealed disturbing findings of the prevalence of child abuse and worsening situation for sexual violence in Fiji. The paper is a continuation of the annual rape cases analysis undertaken by FWRM since 2016 as part of our ongoing research and advocacy on strengthening Fijian’s women’s access to justice.

 “Sexual violence is so heinous a crime and yet so prevalent in Fiji, not just against women and girls but children especially. This is very alarming and there should be more urgency from everyone, members of the public, to address this issue,” said FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh.

 “According to the report, in 63 per cent of the cases, the victim/ survivor knew the accused. This means that change needs to happen everywhere, from the national level to within our families, our homes, schools, churches, on the streets and our communities because the perpetrators are not strangers, they are from our communities.”

 FWRM in continuing with the research on sexual violence against women and girls analysed 81 rape cases decided in the High Courts of Fiji last year. In all 81 cases of rape decided by the high courts in 2020, all the accused were male, the youngest accused was 14 years old and the oldest at 78 years of age.

“All victims/survivors of the 81 cases were female with the youngest being 3 years old and the oldest victim/survivor was 83 years old. Clearly, our attitudes towards women and girls are contributing to these trends,” said Ms. Singh.

 “The average age of the accused was at 25 years old this is a decrease from the previous years whereby the average age ranged from 34 to 39 years”.

 FWRM also studied the trends in sentences meted out during convictions and found that the highest sentence delivered last year was a life sentence. On average, sentences meted out in sexual offences and rape convictions start from 10 years 11 months and average final sentences were at 13 years 4 months.

 In 48 out of 81 cases, the accused was found guilty of rape. In 3 out of 81 cases, the accused was found guilty of a lesser charge. In all of these cases, the accused was found guilty of Defilement.

 “This weekend, families and couples will mark Valentine’s Day but this is also a day of action to end violence against women and girls. V Day is a reminder and an opportunity to be an advocate, empower women and girls around us. Shut down language and behaviour that is harmful to women and girls,” said Ms. Singh.

 “We will be able to foster a safer community only if we advocate for equality and acknowledge women and girls’ rights. This should be a commitment we make every day because the statistics are already so frightening, the time for action is now!”

Additionally, FWRM continues its commitments to the recommendations from earlier research “Balancing the Scales: Improving Fijian Women’s Access to Justice”. FWRM published Court annex which presents data trend analysis of cases relating to Family Law and Violence against Women and Children.

More of the analysis is available on the FWRM website here:  and we acknowledge the Courts Registry and the High Courts for their transparency and publication of these cases on PacLii.

Court Annex 2018-2019 

For more information please contact the Communications Officer Maryann Lockington at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (+679) 8677330

FWRM Welcomes C190 Ratification to end Gender Based Violence in the Workplace

29/06/2020

FWRM welcomes the ratification of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 190 on the prevention of gender-based violence in the workplace.

The Fiji Parliament unanimously voted for the ratification of the Convention 190 in May. The Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190) commonly referred to as C190 recognises that gender-based violence in the workplace must be eradicated to ensure equality, human rights and dignity in the workplace. C190 was adopted on 21 June setting a new global standard on safe workplaces free from violence and harassment.

“This is a milestone moment for Fiji and the world. We are the first in the Pacific to ratify this convention and second in the world. We commend the commitment from our leaders to end violence in the workplace,” said FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh.

“It’s crucial now more than ever to ensure safe workplaces with the coronavirus pandemic bearing down on us and leading to job losses and a severe strain on our economy. C190 can contribute to a more comprehensive and gender-responsive approach during this recovery period.”

According to FWRM’s 2016 research, 1 in 5 Fijian women were found to have been sexually harassed in the workplace. This was follow-up research from a 2002 study, of which FWRM used the findings to lobby for strengthened protection for women in the Employment Relations Act (ERA). The 2016 research findings were also used as part of FWRM’s NOT OK! Stop Sexual Harassment Campaign that was later adapted into a regional campaign.

“We commend the ratification of C190 and look forward to continuing this momentum for improved protection of women and marginalised workers in the workplace. This is also an opportunity to strengthen national awareness and the implementation of some of the progressive laws like the ERA,” said Ms Singh.

FWRM notes with concern the gender analysis on the Convention from the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence which states, “The Convention is gender-neutral and therefore benefits all genders.”

“The ILO Convention recognises gender-based violence where women and marginalised groups in the workplace are more likely to experience harassment and violence. This must be addressed with gender-responsive legislation and policies and not gender-neutral language. We’re at a pivotal moment of over 3 decades of research, advocacy and lobbying from FWRM and women’s groups to shed light on the pervasiveness of sexual harassment and gender-based violence in the workplace. This work needs to be recognised to inform national commitment and the work going forward,” said Ms Singh.

“This is a groundbreaking Convention which the ILO adopted and should not be treated lightly to champion Fiji’s publicity in the global stage.”

FWRM emphasised that ratifying this Convention will hold the State accountable and transparent to protecting the principles of decent work, equal opportunity, economic and human rights.

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For more information contact Communications Officer Maryann Lockington at 8677330 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.