PM Rabuka Champions Gender Equality at First Pacific CEDAW Session

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reaffirmed Fiji’s strong commitment to human rights, social justice, and gender equality at the opening of the first-ever Pacific Technical Cooperation Session of the CEDAW Committee in Suva.

The five-day gathering brings together regional leaders, policymakers, and advocates to tackle gender discrimination and create practical, culturally relevant solutions for the Pacific.

PM Rabuka reflected on Fiji’s progress, noting improved access to justice, education, and women’s participation in male-dominated sectors like engineering and the military. However, he also acknowledged ongoing challenges such as gender-based violence and online abuse.

Highlighting initiatives like the National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls and the upcoming Women’s Economic Empowerment Plan, he called for collective efforts and urged men to be allies in promoting respect and fairness for women.

PM Rabuka concluded by stressing the importance of Pacific-specific approaches that balance individual rights with cultural and communal values.