The empowerment and advancement of women in leadership spaces in Fiji needs ongoing and deliberate attention and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad said this was a priority of the Coalition government.
Speaking at the Women’s Leadership Pipeline: Pulse Check Panel, Professor Prasad said Fiji has alot to do in this specific area.
“Both globally and here in Fiji, women
have continually proven to be essential in shaping our communities, driving economic progress, and strengthening resilient societies.”
“Yet, despite their significant contributions,
women’s involvement in leadership and decision-making remains as a challenge that requires ongoing and deliberate attention. This persistent gap is more than just a matter of gender disparity – it is a critical issue of governance that calls
for a united and sustained effort from all of us.”
The Minister highlighted the need for more women leaders in Parliament.
“In 2024, women in Fiji held 25% of board director positions, a commendable increase from 20% in 2021. However, this still falls short of the Pacific regional average of 26%.”
“In the political arena, women’s representation in Fiji’s Parliament stands at a mere 9.1%. This is a stark contrast to the global average and underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to
empower women in governance.”
“The Coalition Government commits to
building a Fiji where women’s leadership is not an exception, but a norm.”
The workshop is currently underway at the Pasifika Communities University.
