Fijian government seeks public input on plan to make defence sector ‘more gender inclusive’

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division held a parade on July 24, 2024 to mark its 49th anniversary at the Togalevu Naval Base.
photo: Facebook / Fiji Military Forces

Fiji’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Immigration has called on the public to participate in the development of the country’s first national plan on women, peace and security.

The ministry said it hopes to “gather your valuable insights” on how to make Fiji’s defence and security sector “more inclusive and accountable”.

The statement said public submissions were for those who were “passionate about contributing to creating a safe and secure Fiji for all”.

The ministry’s permanent secretary, Mason Smith, said the ministry was “seeking community perspectives on the main question”: How can the Fijian government build gender-inclusive peace and security in the country, the region and the world?

Minor issues include:

• 1/ How to meaningfully participate in the work of women, girls and gender minorities

Are Fiji’s defence and security sectors secured?

• 2/What strategies should the Fiji government adopt to mainstream gender issues?

Covers national legislation, policies, plans and practices in defence

And the security department?

• 3/What are the main challenges that hinder gender equality in Fiji’s defence and public affairs?

What are the problems with the security sector and the services it provides, and how can these problems be addressed?

• 4/ How can civil society organizations and the public contribute

Implementation and monitoring of WPS NAP?

• 5/What measures should the Fijian government take to ensure its efforts

Is advancing the WPS agenda sustainable?

The ministry said it is accepting written comments on these issues and any other issues that stakeholders believe should be considered.